In recent weeks, we have heard from students about concerns related to affordability and food insecurity. The global recession and inflation, at a 40-year high, is causing financial challenges for many members of the UBC community and putting pressure on all areas of the university.
Recognizing the impact of the increased cost of living on students, UBC convened a Student Affordability Task Force in March 2021. Members included student leaders, faculty, and staff from both campuses. The group examined systemic issues and financial pressures that students and their families face.
In March of this year, the task force released a report with 10 recommendations which you can read at https://bog3.sites.olt.ubc.ca/files/2022/03/2.1i_2022.03_Student-Affordability-Task-Force.pdf. The report also outlines key actions which are already underway, and includes an historic $100 million fundraising initiative for needs-based student aid.
To ensure the recommendations are implemented, we have initiated a Student Affordability Task Force Implementation Committee. We have also assembled a separate task force to focus on affordability issues more specific to graduate students and their needs.
Recognizing the urgency around this issue, the university is investing $2.4 million this year in food security-related aid between the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses, including: Student Financial Aid, the UBC Meal Share Program and funding student-led programs such as the AMS Food Bank, Acadia Park Food Hub, Sprouts and Agora.
Support and resources
For students experiencing financial hardships or food insecurity, support and resources are available on both campuses:
Vancouver campus
- Food access support: https://foodhub.ubc.ca/resources/?campus=5&support-resource-type=7
- Enrolment Services Advisors: https://students.ubc.ca/about-student-services/enrolment-services-advisors
- Financial emergencies: https://students.ubc.ca/enrolment/finances/funding-studies/financial-emergencies
Okanagan campus
- Food access support: https://foodhub.ubc.ca/resources/?campus=6&support-resource-type=7
- Student Records and Financial Services: https://students.ok.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/student-records-financial-services/
- Financial emergencies: https://students.ok.ubc.ca/courses-money-enrolment/finances/financial-support/emergency-funding/
Affordability, while managing inflationary pressures, is a critical priority for the university’s administration and student leaders within the AMS, GSS, and UBCSUO. We will continue to work closely and collaboratively with student leaders to understand this complex issue and build toward sustainable, long-term solutions.
We applaud the passion and deep engagement on this important topic, and look forward to sharing more outcomes of UBC’s work in the near future.
Ainsley Carry
Vice President, Students
This message was sent to students in Vancouver and the Okanagan.
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