The Campus Food Bank at the University of Alberta is celebrating 25 years on campus. Originally founded by the Graduate Students’ Association in 1992, thanks to the hard work of Robert Turner, the CFB has been a resource for the whole campus community since it first opened its doors.

A lot has happened over the past 25 years. The Students’ Union got involved in 1997, sponsoring the Campus Food Bank and providing it with room in the Students’ Union Building. The organization subsequently became an official department of the Students’ Union, until 2005, when it became an independent charity. And just last year, the Campus Food Bank ran a successful DFU campaign, and now receives a Dedicated Fee Unit of $1 per student per semester.

Cory Hodgson, the Executive Director of the Campus Food Bank, joined the organization this year. “We’ve grown a lot as an organization over the last 25 years, but the need for our services has grown as well.” he says.

Throughout its 25-year history, the Campus Food Bank has served students and community members in need and raised awareness about food insecurity on campus. Studies show approximately two fifths of Canadian students will face some degree of food insecurity during their time on campus. Last year, the Campus Food Bank provided assistance to more than 2700 individuals.

“Rising costs of education have meant more and better support systems are needed on campus,” says Hodgson.

The Campus Food Bank is hosting a week of events, from November 27^th to 30^th, to celebrate the milestone anniversary, including a presentation on Food as a Human Right, a 24-hour fast-a-thon, free macaroni and cheese lunch, and a wrap-up party at Dewey’s. For more information on the events, visit 25CFB.com.

If you need help, the Campus Food Bank is there. To request a food hamper, register in person at the Campus Food Bank at 1-81 SUB. For more information about requesting a hamper, visit the CFB website at campusfoodbank.com.