Foodbanks around Leeds have seen a sharp rise in the number of students using their services.
Surveys published by the National Union of Students, and the financial advice website Save the Student, have revealed the extent to which students are struggling with money. Around 96% of students have had to cut down on their spending and reduce their daily budget, with as many as 82% concerned about their day to day finances.
Kirkstall Valley Development Trust, a local charitable organisation, has said that it openly welcomes students in their new hEAT community cafes. Adele Rae, executive director of the KVDT, defends this decision, stating that students are members of the local community too.
Produce handed out at hEAT cafes is all grown locally at Kirkstall Valley Farm, a relatively new community farm tucked away along Kirkstall river. The farm, staffed by volunteers and probation workers, aims to bring the community together for events and projects to keep spirits up as the crisis continues.
Paul Heap, a volunteer at the farm, and a major proponent in it’s construction and organisation, has expressed his pride in the progress made so far, and is excited for the future of the project. Indeed, when exploring the farm and learning about it’s incredibly impressive influence in the local community, it’s difficult to imagine that it began only 18 months ago, after it’s lease was acquired by KVDT.
To volunteer at Kirkstall Valley Farm, please call 07811 205565 or email kirkstallvalleyfarm@gmail.com. To volunteer at hEAT community cafe, please contact Adele Rae at 07900 986570 or adele.rae@kvdt.org.uk.
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