Stigma is a negative stereotype, belief, or attitude towards a concept or group of people that leads that group to have feelings of inferiority or isolation in society.  

The stigma around food insecurity is often what stops people from accessing resources that may make the difference in their life. Food Banks Canada sites the major barriers for accessing food banks as “feeling ashamed” (54% of responders), “feeling others needed it more” (46% of respondents), and “feeling unwelcomed or judged” (41%).  

Reducing the stigma around food insecurity comes from spreading awareness that accessing these resources is very acceptable and welcomed. Everyone’s circumstances are different, and food pantries are designed to accommodate a wide range of needs. The hardest step is accepting that support and resources should be used. The second hardest is using them! 

To help make this step easier, we’re introducing Food Lockers – a private and accessible way to pick up Food Pantry resources. By clicking on the “Book the Food Locker” link near the bottom of this page, you can book a locker in Erie Hall, which reside left of the first-floor entrance of room 1120. This is especially useful if you can’t make it to the Food Pantry during its hours of operation. The locker allows you to pick up your non-perishable goods whenever throughout the day! Once your locker request has been confirmed, you’ll get a QR code for a corresponding locker in the days that follow. Whenever you’re able throughout that day you can locate the lockers, scan your QR code where indicated, and your locker will open automatically. Please take ALL items out of your locker at once and make sure to close it on your way out!