Funded by a £19,800 gift from an anonymous donor, the Hub was created to help students manage rising living costs while reducing food waste. In just a few weeks, it has distributed more than 3,000 food items, with demand peaking at 130 students in a single day.
The project is led by Anna James, Sustainability and Development Officer at the Students’ Union, who has overseen its development over the past eight months.
Anna James, Sustainability and Development Officer, Sheffield Students’ Union, said: “Building the Community Hub has been such a privilege, I’ve had the incredible experience of speaking to many of these students and understanding the importance of this service."
The Hub provides free groceries sourced through partnerships with organisations including FareShare, which redistributes surplus food from across the supply chain. Fresh fruit and vegetables form a core part of the offer, alongside guidance to help students make the most of the ingredients available.
Students say the Hub is making a tangible difference to their daily lives, helping them stretch their budgets while maintaining access to nutritious food.
Accessing sustainable food, clothing and repairs not only reduces our impact on the planet and our wallets, but it can really bring us together.
Anna James
Sustainability and Development Officer, Sheffield Students’ Union
Early demand has exceeded expectations, underlining the scale of need within the student community. In its first week alone, the Hub distributed an average of more than 130 items per day, often running out of stock before closing.
Plans are already underway to expand the Hub’s impact. These include collaborations with local initiatives, student-led workshops, and practical resources such as recipe cards and food-growing schemes to help students build confidence and skills.
How to Get Involved
The Community Hub runs on collective effort, from donations and volunteering to simply using the space.
To donate clothing, bring your items to the Community Hub reception and a member of staff will take them.
If you’re interested in sustainability, you are able to volunteer at the Hub. To find out more about volunteer roles, apply here.
What’s in the Community Hub?
Community Pantry
A free-to-use pantry stocked with surplus food saved from going to waste, from fresh fruit and vegetables to cupboard staples like beans, pulses and pasta.
Community Closet
A free, open clothing space where students can explore, share and reuse clothes.
Community Repair Café
A shared space where students can learn simple clothing repair skills and extend the life of their clothes.
The Community Hub is located on Level 3 of the SU, open Monday - Friday, 10:30 - 15:30.