Food support

Researched by the VarsityStart team from official university sources. Last checked 10 October 2026. How we check

The Meal Assistance Programme (through Student Affairs) gives grocery packs of about 18 non-perishable items and dignity packs to students who are not funded by NSFAS or other meal assistance. The SRC also runs a Trust Fund and Meal Assistance programme.

Scale: UJ reported about 13,000 grocery packs across the four campuses in 2025. The first 2026 distribution (25 February) was 1,800 packs.
Meal Mate app: UJ introduced this app in 2026 to manage distribution, cut queues and let students ask for help discreetly.
How to apply: UJ describes the programme for students facing financial hardship but we did not find the application steps. Ask Student Affairs or your SRC.

Source: UJ student food insecurity and hunger · UJ Meal Assistance Programme · Official