Food Banks and Second Hand Shops

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to unfold and the demand for sustainable living increases, it can be difficult to find ways to keep costs low. Food banks are run by the community and can help provide food and toiletries if you can’t afford them. It works by public donations of in-date, non-perishable food which are then sorted and given to those in need for free. Second hand shops sell used goods for a low price which is then donated to charity. The items are donated by the public and are a really good source of unique, vintage clothes and accessories without the urban outfitters price tag. These services can help financially constrained students as a result of the current situation. 

The University of Lincoln operates its own foodbank out of the student union advice centre. It’s stoked with tinned food like tuna, vegetables, fruit and rice pudding, along with toiletries like toilet paper and deodorant. If you think you may need assistance, visit the SU Advice Centre located next to the Engine Shed, email advice@lincolnsu.com or phone 01522 837000. When using these services you do not need to prove you require support, however you must attend an appointment with an advisor to go over your situation where they’ll be able to show you all the options and help available to you. 

The Multi-Faith Chaplaincy at Witham House on campus also has a food bank. Just drop in, it’s located next to the sports centre and look for a Chaplain. They’ll show to the food store and allow you to pick the food you need. 

On the other hand, if you’ve been saying you’re going to eat that tinned rice pudding for the last year and it’s still on the shelf, maybe donate to student food bank! Save it from going to waste and help someone in need whilst also increasing your sustainability and clearing out your cupboards ready to move out. 

Second hand shops are littered all around Lincoln, the high street is full of charity shops which constantly receive public donations so are always rotating stock, meaning you’ll find something different every time you pop in! Along with being cost effective, charity shops are fantastic places to find unique items and help you keep your New Years Resolution of being more sustainable!

Although these shops carry a range of items from clothes to accessories, kitchenware and DVDs; Lincoln actually has its own second-hand Oxfam bookshop located next to Santander on the High street. This is packed full of used books and is the perfect place to find your next read, you could even donate it back once you’ve finished!