Enactus Huddersfield launches Care Cupboard food bank on campus
A group of students at the University of Huddersfield have launched a food bank on campus to offer free food and wider support to other students who may be affected by cost-of-living pressures.
The group are part of Enactus, an initiative dedicated to inspiring students to build a better, more sustainable world through entrepreneurial action and community development projects.
The team at Enactus Huddersfield are led by Team Leader Luke Hester, an MSc Digital Marketing student with a strong passion for helping others.
They first came up with the Care Cupboard idea earlier this year as part of the Enactus UK & Ireland Action4Impact “Stop Hunger” competition, where they were a Top 5 Finalist in April.
As a result, the Team won £750 in funding in recognition of their idea’s potential to make a real impact on tackling food insecurity.
They opened Care Cupboard in summer 2025 and formally launched it at an open event on 23 October, using the slogan “Students should be hungry for knowledge, not food”.
Not only does the project provide free food for students who may be struggling financially, there is also the chance to speak to the University’s Student Finance team about financial issues and receive guidance to help get back on track. In addition, the Student Wellbeing Team can provide support for students in need, via counselling, workshops and groups.
Care Cupboard also reduces food waste by collecting surplus products from local supermarkets for redistribution. The Enactus Huddersfield team has partnered with Neighbourly and has a weekly slot booked with Sainsbury's to collect a variety of goods to keep Care Cupboard well stocked.
Located on Floor 1 of the Harold Wilson Building, Care Cupboard is open at various times in the week and offers a safe, inclusive space for students in need. Keep an eye on their Instagram for opening times.
Luke commented: “The cost-of-living crisis is affecting so many students right now, so we’re pleased to have opened Care Cupboard to aid those who need that little bit of extra help. Having Care Cupboard on campus means students can pop along in between lectures and don’t have to go far for support.”
The University’s Enterprise Team provides additional support and guidance for the student-led society.
Nicola Walker, Enterprise Hub Manager at the University, commented: “Students are not immune from cost-of-living pressures, so it’s great to see our Team at Enactus Huddersfield leading the way on campus with another layer of support for any student in need.
“I’m particularly proud of the way the Enactus team here at Huddersfield have been able to combine the Care Cupboard with wider support for students, through involving the University’s Student Finance Office, who can help with budgeting, as well as advice on eligibility for any available hardship funds, and the Student Wellbeing Team who provide support for students to strengthen their wellbeing through one-to-one appointments, counselling services, workshops and groups.”
In addition, while the Care Cupboard is open, TSL Kirklees is on hand for those interested in volunteering opportunities locally, as well as offering a volunteer buddy scheme, which can help with attending a first meeting or the first couple of volunteer sessions.
As well as inspiring students through entrepreneurial action and community development projects, Enactus aims to develop the next generation of responsible leaders and social innovators.
By using the United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development as a framework for progress, the work of Enactus members transforms both the lives of the people they serve and the lives of our students as they develop into more effective, values-driven leaders.
Enactus Huddersfield are always looking for volunteers who want to develop their leadership abilities and gain practical business experience whilst supporting communities.
Contact enactushuddersfield@outlook.com for further information.