University of Bath students have been donating unneeded items to Bath Foodbank as they clear out their accommodation to return home early due to the coronavirus pandemic.
University of Bath students en route to Julian House
The Revd Canon Nigel Rawlinson, University Chaplain at the University of Bath, with students from the Christian Union, organised the call for donations to Bath Foodbank, which is run by the Genesis Trust – a charity providing support to homeless and vulnerable people in Bath.
Students were asked to donate non-perishable food, including tinned food, cereals, and pasta, as they cleared out their fridges and prepared to go home.
Nigel Rawlinson said: “Many students are preparing to travel home to be with their families and continue their studies remotely.
“Rather than throw away, or travel with, unused food items, many students are taking the chance to help others by supporting Bath Foodbank.
“These students are aware of the sharp increase in demand, and need, for essential food items among Bath’s most vulnerable citizens.
“Supporting the Pack for Good initiative is likewise a way to give something back to the community.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has clearly underlined how much we’re all connected and depend on one another; we’re very proud of how many of our students are seeking to make a positive contribution.”
University of Bath students are also continuing to support the British Heart Foundation through the Student Community Partnership’s‘ Pack for Good’ campaign.
The initiative encourages students to donate quality unwanted items to the charity as they clear out their accommodation. Over £544,000 has been raised since the initiative’s launch in 2012.
Face-to-face teaching ceased on 17th March for undergraduates and those taking taught graduate courses for the remainder of Semester 2, which ends on Friday 29th May.
Teaching at the University of Bath is being reconfigured so that it can be delivered online.
You can find the latest coronavirus information, advice and community updates for the Bath & North East Somerset area on our dedicated live blog here.
