Introducing Psyc Snacks

Food insecurity is a growing concern on campuses nationwide, and MUN is not an exception. Many students struggle to afford necessities, balancing the high costs of tuition, rent, and other living expenses.  

A Response to Campus Food Insecurity 

A recent study conducted by MUN’s Faculty of Education provides a deeper understanding of the impact of financial strain on students. This research found that 42% of MUN students surveyed have experienced some form of food insecurity in the past year. Among these students, 68% reported heightened stress levels, 52% noted a decline in their academic performance, and 47% experienced worsened mental health. The study underscores the critical need for support systems, showing that students with access to community resources were 30% more likely to report improved well-being and academic achievement. These findings highlight the importance of initiatives that address basic needs, creating an environment where students can better thrive academically and personally.  

A Community-Driven Solution for Students 

To help address this within our community, the Psychology Department has created a committee, organized by Dr. Carolyn Walsh, comprised of faculty and staff, as well as undergraduate and graduate students. Psyc Snacks, now available to visit, will offer healthy food items and other essentials to students. By providing these resources, we hope to alleviate some of the financial pressures our students face, enabling them to focus on their academic and personal growth.  The name of the snack station was decided by a student vote.  

In addition to providing essential items, Psyc Snacks is designed to be a welcoming and safe space where students can connect with each other. Located at PsyCentral, the Psych Help Centre in SN 3071, the snack station offers more than just food; it provides a place for students to gather, share experiences, and support one another. Loneliness and social isolation are significant issues, especially post COVID-19, and the station aims to create a bigger sense of belonging and community.  

Our snack station operates on a “give what you can, take what you need” approach and is open to all students, staff, post-docs, and anyone else in the Psychology Department. To ensure all students feel comfortable accessing the station's resources, it will be operated on an honour system. There will be no checks or requirements and no need for fear of judgment or scrutiny. Students also will have access to a microwave, kettle, and toaster.   

Join Us in Supporting Student Needs 

We welcome contributions from all members of the MUN community. While the project is still in its early stages, the Department is actively seeking donations, specifically a refrigerator and storage containers with lids to keep our food fresh. We will soon have the capacity to receive financial donations. If you are interested in helping in any way, you can contact  psycsnacks@mun.ca. 

Psyc Snacks represents a collective effort to ensure that no student must choose between their education and their basic needs. By coming together to support this initiative we can create a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving campus environment. We look forward to working with our community to make Psyc Snacks a lasting success.