Generous donation boosts support for students remaining in York this holiday

Almost 200 students set to remain in York for Christmas will receive special support from York St John University.

The University will be handing out festive support packages for students remaining in accommodation during the holiday period, from Friday 10 December 2021 to Tuesday 4 January 2022.  

Last year the University acknowledged the difficulty some students may face due to the pandemic, as well as personal circumstances which mean they will remain in private and rented accommodation over the festive period.

Not wanting students to feel isolated, the Student Life team devoted hours to present wrapping and hamper making, distributing packages in time for Christmas.

The tradition continues this year, with added support from Morrisons supermarket. Festive packages are filled with delicious food items, thanks to a generous donation from the retailer.

Wendy Davies, community champion for Morrisons at Foss Island said: “It was a privilege to meet the staff at York St John University and to donate goodies that will make students’ Christmas a good and happy one. I would like to wish all staff and students a very Happy Christmas from Morrisons.”

Packages will be handed out in the lead up to Christmas, with students not heading home for the holidays invited to meet for mince pies and festive drinks.

Gillian Sowray, PA to Director of Student Life, has led the coordination of goodies and said: “All our students deserve a happy holiday, so this gesture is to remind our care leavers, international and estranged students that they are not alone, and we will be thinking of them over the break. It really is a team effort, and it has been wonderful to have the added support from Morrisons to make the packages special.”