Food assistance in Melbourne has become a critical service for many students, and Hare Krishna Melbourne has stepped up to make a real difference. Through our Food For Life initiative, our organisation collaborates with the University of Melbourne Student Union to provide hundreds of nutritious, plant-based meals to students every week. This partnership not only helps to address food insecurity on campus but also aligns with Hare Krishna Melbourne’s values of service and community care.
With a focus on affordable and accessible meals, Hare Krishna Melbourne has become a trusted presence within the university community. Their efforts ensure that students receive high-quality food in a welcoming environment, creating positive connections and providing much-needed support for those in need.
Food for Life in Melbourne
Food For Life is a global initiative that provides nutritious meals to communities in need, and its Melbourne chapter has become a staple for many. Operating as a volunteer-based organisation, Food For Life Melbourne has been actively working to offer meals to those facing food insecurity across the city. By focusing on plant-based, freshly prepared meals, the initiative ensures that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to wholesome food.
In Melbourne, Food For Life collaborates with various organisations and institutions, including universities, to distribute meals to students and community members alike. This approach has created strong connections throughout the city, making it possible to feed hundreds of individuals weekly. Whether through partnerships or standalone initiatives, Food For Life continues to make a meaningful impact across Melbourne.
Food For Life for the University of Melbourne
Hare Krishna Melbourne, through its Food For Life initiative, plays a crucial role in supporting the University of Melbourne’s student community. Each week, over 500 meals are prepared and distributed to students through our Crossways restaurant, providing affordable, plant-based food that is both nutritious and delicious. This collaboration with the university’s Student Union has made a significant difference for students, especially those struggling with food insecurity. By offering subsidised meals, the program helps ease the financial pressure many students face.
The partnership extends beyond meal distribution, as Hare Krishna Melbourne aligns its values of community service and volunteerism with the needs of the student body. The quality of the meals, combined with the welcoming nature of the initiative, has made Food For Life a well-loved program at the university. Students know they can rely on this initiative for consistent, healthy food options.
“For the majority of 2024, UMSU Welfare has collaborated with the Hare Krishna caterer, Crossways, to provide free meals to hundreds of students each week of semester. As a not-for-profit, UMSU is consistently seeking suppliers that have the ability to provide low-cost food, whilst also catering to our diverse student body and relevant cultural and dietary requirements. Crossways has consistently surpassed expectations on price, quality and service. There have been multiple occasions where we have placed late orders, changed our order last minute, or any other type of complication – Crossways has always worked with us to overcome complications and ensure students get fed.
Our students are consistently grateful for the food and its ability to provide a single meal that suits students of all cultures. It provides more than just a free meal, but an opportunity for students to come together, socialise and eat alongside their peers.”
~ Joshua, University of Melbourne Student Union.
In addition to the meals provided every Thursday, Hare Krishna Melbourne also collaborates with university clubs, such as the Yoga Club, to support events and further engage with students. This involvement reinforces their commitment to fostering a sense of community within the university, making Hare Krishna Melbourne a vital presence on campus.
Testimonial From the Students
“I love it. The flavours are strong, delicious and full of colour. I always feel full and happy after eating a serving of curry and rice. I love how healthy it is as well the the fact that it is vegetarian. It’s one of the best parts of my week. Much love and gratitude to everyone involved.”
Donate to Food For Life Melbourne
Want to offer you assistance to the mission of Hare Krishna Melbourne and Food For Life? Any donation you are willing and able to make is greatly appreciated and goes a long way towards helping us achieve our goal of feeding anyone in this city who is in need of a meal.
