Giving Tuesday at CBU: Compassion in Action at the Students’ Union Food Bank

As part of this year’s Giving Tuesday campaign, Cape Breton University is highlighting the essential work of the CBU Students’ Union Food Bank and the students behind its day-to-day operations. This year, Giving Tuesday takes place on December 3, and CBU is once again joining universities across Nova Scotia to raise funds in support of campus food security.

This year, the J&W Murphy Foundation will once again match donations based on student enrolment. This partnership ensures that every dollar donated goes even further toward supporting students experiencing food insecurity.

At CBU, the Students’ Union Food Bank plays a vital role in ensuring students have access to nutritious food when they need it. Led by Food Bank Coordinator, Augustina Ehizogie, and Food Bank Outreach Coordinator, Hannah MacKinnon, the service provides immediate support to students facing financial strain and rising living costs.

“I got involved because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students,” says Augustina. “With my experience helping communities facing food insecurity, I understand how difficult it can be to afford healthy meals. Being part of the Food Bank allows me to support our campus community in a meaningful way.”

For Hannah, the motivation is rooted in compassion and equity. “I’ve always believed that access to food is a basic need no one should struggle with, especially at school,” she says. “When students are worried about their next meal, it impacts their wellbeing, their confidence and their ability to focus on their studies.”

Behind the scenes, the Food Bank team manages a steady flow of applications, stocks shelves, packs food bags, monitors inventory and keeps the space welcoming and safe. Outreach events like next week’s campus breakfast program help raise awareness and reduce stigma, ensuring more students feel comfortable accessing support.

The impact of the Food Bank is immediate and deeply felt. “The relief we provide is not something you can measure,” says Augustina. “Students, like other community members, often have to choose between paying essential bills and paying for groceries. When they receive a package from the Food Bank, it takes a weight off their shoulders and gives them room to breathe, focus and feel supported.”

Both coordinators say they hear daily from students who share stories of gratitude and relief. One student returned to say the assistance lifted a weight off her shoulders, while another reached out anonymously to thank the team for helping during a difficult time.

Initiatives like Giving Tuesday, supported by the J and W Murphy Foundation, make these moments possible.

“The support from Giving Tuesday helps us restock high-need items and continue improving our services,” says Hannah. “It fills the gaps that regular donations cannot cover and ensures we can remain a reliable resource throughout the year.”

Food insecurity affects students from all backgrounds, often quietly and unexpectedly. Rising living costs, limited resources and academic pressures mean many students skip meals or struggle to afford basic necessities.

“Donations go a long way,” the coordinators say. “People can donate non-perishable food items, hygiene products or contribute financially to help ensure no student has to choose between paying a bill, pursuing their education or having their next meal.”

Giving Tuesday encourages communities around the world to come together in support of meaningful causes. At Cape Breton University, it offers an opportunity to strengthen the supports that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

To make a donation to support the CBU Students’ Union Food Bank, visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/140482