-
UCOL Student association manager Rusty Campbell reaches for an item from the shelf at its food bank - Source: Fairfax
Struggling students are increasingly needing support as economic conditions continue to bite.
Student associations have reported cash-strapped students accessing food banks and hardship funds.
This included students who could no longer get money from parents in Canterbury as they struggled financially after the earthquake.
Universal College of Learning (UCOL) students' association president Kylie Jefferies said higher course costs and the recent increase in GST had hit students in the pocket.
"It's going to get tougher before it gets better," she said.
The student association assisted by providing a food bank, supermarket vouchers and help with unexpected bills.
When applying, students must provide a bank statement and income details to prove they are under financial strain.
Jefferies said any student over-spending on luxuries, such as shopping sprees or buying booze, would be denied.
The association also referred students on to budgeting advisers and Student Job Search, she said.
Students are also seeking assistance from Massey University Students' Association.
Vice president and welfare representative Kyle Willoughby said there had been a big need for welfare, and applications were coming in earlier than usual.
Some were from students whose families live in Canterbury.
"They rely on help from their parents for financial support but the parents are in financial strife themselves," Willoughby said.
Students can receive hardship grants for unexpected bills, such as a car breaking down.
"Year on year [applications for welfare] have increased and economic pressure is mainly the reason.
People are still hitting the wall."
A competitive job market was also putting a squeeze on students.
"Most people want to work and employers want to employ but they don't have the money or resources to employ part-time workers."
Massey University Students Association doubled its Student Assistance Programme budget to $40,000 last year to deal with greater demand from struggling students.
Latest NZ News Video
-
Kiwi speaks to TVNZ7 from Everest base camp (1:59)
-
Immigration advisor Bill Milnes discusses claims (4:34)
-
Dance to save Shakti service (0:41)
