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International students feel the support through ‘Meals for Mates’

International students stranded in Queensland due to Coronavirus are being supported through a new ‘Meals for Mates’ initiative. GIVIT is working with local supermarkets and Study Queensland to ensure study clusters of international students receive much-needed groceries.

Through GIVIT, thousands of grocery and pantry staples are being supplied weekly to each cluster.

The wonderful teams from Study Queensland shared their thanks, and a few happy snaps, on their Facebook pages.

Study Sunshine Coast

“We love going into the weekend on a positive note and you can't get much more positive than lots of happy international students who are all taking home grocery packs today! With many still not able to get home, worried about family and without work, this is a welcome relief all thanks to the amazing generosity, support and collaboration of Study Queensland, GIVIT and White's SUPA IGA Bli Bli - thank you!”

Study Sunshine Coast Program Manager, Tracey, also shared her thanks. “Thank you and the team so much for this extremely generous program, it really will make sure a difference to our struggling international students here on the coast and round out of offering of frozen ready-meals and fresh produce.”

Gold Coast Student Hub

“Lots of happy faces today as we handed out our first round of grocery packs and frozen meals to Gold Coast international students. We will be back again tomorrow handing out more meals, thanks to the support of Study Gold Coast and Study Queensland.”

Cairns Student Hub

“Each afternoon you’ll find Gaby and Danni (pictured above) at the Cairns Student Hub, supporting international students across the Cairns region. Gaby has been leading the Meals for Mates student pantry in Cairns, ensuring the pantry is stocked each week for students in need. Danni is working closely with student volunteers to welcome and support all students who visit the hub.”

“Juan is from Colombia, and chose Cairns as the place to complete his hospitality course. Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, Juan worked part time in a local hotel. But when the venue had to close, he lost his position. Juan is hopeful of securing work as the crisis eases, but in the meantime he’s been volunteering to support other students at the Cairns Student Hub. Juan promotes the student pantry to other students who may be struggling during the crisis, and encourages them to come and seek support.”