A one-day initiative has whipped up support for Brock University’s student food bank.

Sodexo joined forces with the Campus Store recently to donate $436 to Food First, the food assistance program run by the Brock University Students’ Union.

The funds were raised during two book signings held Nov. 9 with Chef Michael Smith in Market Hall and the Campus Store.

Proceeds from copies of Smith’s book, Real Food, Real Good, sold on campus during the signing were collected to support the food bank.

In addition to funds from the book sales, Sodexo contributed funds collected during management dress down days held throughout the year.

After receiving the donation this week, BUSU Vice-President of External Affairs Julia Wood said work is being done to raise awareness of the food bank service and to remove the stigma of seeking assistance in a time of need.

“We’re trying to increase the usage rates and make the food bank more accessible,” she said.

Located in the General Brock store, the recently-relocated food bank offers both fresh and non-perishable food items for students.

Gift cards for groceries are at times also available.

“A lot of students have financial need,” Wood said, urging people not to shy away from asking for help when money is tight.

Students in need of the food bank’s services can apply online at www.brockbusu.ca/services/food-bank

A donation was recently made from Sodexo and the Campus Store to support Food First, the student food bank operated by the Brock University Students’ Union. Pictured from left are BUSU Vice-President of External Affairs Julia Wood, Sodexo Director Martin Bayliss, Sodexo Marketing Manager Christina Richards, Guernsey Market Manager Kendra Sinodinos, BUSU President Patrick Foster, BUSU Vice-President of Finance and Administration Faisal Hejazi, Campus Store Retail Associate Azuhura Msofe and BUSU Vice-President of Student Services Jad Nasser.