World Day of Social Justice: The success of TU Dublin's Food Pantry
The ongoing success of TU Dublin's Food Pantry was highlighted throughout at a talk to mark the recent World Day of Social Justice (20 February). The event was facilitated by Jacqueline Kelleher, Marian Connell, Michelle Cresswell and Barbara Murray at TU Dublin’s Tallaght Campus.
Guest speakers Rachel Mulqueen and Muirne McManamon from FoodCloud delivered a compelling presentation on food waste and sustainability. They outlined the critical role the Food Pantry plays in advancing TU Dublin’s sustainability objectives reducing food waste, supporting responsible consumption, and improving well-being.
Advertising & Marketing Communications students (TU919) presented their creative promotional campaign for the Food Pantry. Their work showcased inclusive, positive messaging aimed at increasing awareness and engagement among the student body, demonstrating how strategic communication can drive participation in social impact initiatives.
Student Volunteering Co-Ordinator Claire Flannery, who leads the Food Pantry initiative across all five TU Dublin campuses, provided insight into the programme’s broader influence. She highlighted the benefits for student volunteers, who gain valuable leadership experience, teamwork skills, and a deepened sense of social responsibility. Current student volunteers shared their personal reflections, describing the initiative as both meaningful and transformative.
The event also featured contributions from Kathy Byrne of The Well in Tallaght Village. She introduced the Well Tallaght initiative, where students use ingredients sourced from the Food Pantry to develop cooking and baking skills. This partnership aims to further strengthen community links and enhance practical life skills among students.
A vibrant culinary display brought the talk to a close, with first and second year social care students preparing dishes representing a range of cultural traditions. Their offerings celebrated the diversity, inclusion, and community spirit that define the Food Pantry initiative.
To date, the Food Pantry has seen significant uptake, underscoring both the need for and the positive impact of the service among the campus community. Special thanks were extended to Hilda Burton, Patricia Medcalf, Terence Brennan, John Heaney, and the caretaking and security teams, along with the many staff members and volunteers who dedicate their time each week to maintaining a high standard of support for students.
The Social Justice Talk not only celebrated the achievements of the Food Pantry but also reaffirmed the power of collaboration, compassion, and community-driven action within TU Dublin.