Since the first confinement, the distributions of foodstuffs to students have encountered growing demand, a visible symptom of material precariousness which is skyrocketing with the health crisis.

On the campus of the University of Lille 1, in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, more and more students are attending. 

REPORTAGE

On the tables, there are packages of pasta, tins and hygiene products.

As soon as it opens, a long line of students forms on the campus of the University of Lille 1, in Villeneuve-d'Ascq.

Two short hours later, stocks are exhausted.

"We have never had so many people, neither during the first nor during the second confinement. 200 people in two hours, it's unheard of," says Xavier, a volunteer with Secours populaire.

Everywhere in France, the distribution of foodstuffs to students is meeting a growing demand, a visible symptom of material precariousness which is skyrocketing with the health crisis. 

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Lamia, a young student, is filling her tote bag.

"We can't buy all that. It's thanks to associations that we can last the month."

In addition to shopping, some also find it difficult to pay their rent.

"With the confinement, I have difficulty finding a job," explains Paméla, originally from Brazil.

Without bars and restaurants, it is difficult for students to find an odd job. 

Financial but also psychological distress

This new precariousness strikes both foreign and French students.

"Usually we have few French students but this year we have plenty. Honestly, it pains me when I see students who come and say to us' I can't afford to buy myself eat 'or' I'm depressed, I don't know how to handle that '. It really touches me, "regrets a volunteer. 

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Because the isolation due to confinements and online courses causes, in addition to material difficulties, increasing psychological distress in these young people, most of them in the first year.

They are impatiently awaiting the return of face-to-face classes, announced for January 4.

This return should however be done gradually and will not concern all the pupils at the same time.