McMaster cafe launches pay it forward program

It’s seen as a hidden crisis at university and college campuses across the country, students who can’t afford to eat.

McMaster University’s hospitality services has started a new pay it forward initiative to help students in need.

The program called Cards for Humanity allows customers to add a dollar to purchase a card at Bridges Café that allows $3 off another student’s meal. The school has already sold all 100 cards at the cash. It’s a discreet way for some students to get the help they need.

The organizers say accessibility to food is a serious concern. Food banks in the area like the Good Shepherd’s see more students in the school year using their services. Their food bank there is servicing 100 students a month.

The average cost of tuition in Canada each year is approximately $7,000.