You can now pay it forward at university’s cafes
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) has launched a new scheme to give back to its local communities.
Announced on Random Acts of Kindness Day, the university has introduced an ‘invisible coffee’initiative, giving UWS and its students the opportunity to cover the cost of a hot beverage for someone who needs it most.
Professor James Miller, principal and vice-chancellor, said:“UWS is an anchor institution within the communities it serves. This new initiative further strengthens our commitment to supporting our local areas.
“At UWS, we strive to create friendly environments and warm spaces – this is a tried-and-tested way of giving back to the community and encouraging people to come and access a hot drink and enjoy our many welcoming areas.”
Customers of UWS’s Paisley, Lanarkshire and Ayr catering facilities simply purchase a drink at half-price under the‘invisible coffee’initiative. They are then given a voucher to place on the free coffee board, leaving a positive handwritten message for someone to collect.
People from within the local community will be encouraged to access the board, take a voucher, and exchange it for a hot beverage at one of the university’s catering outlets across its campuses.
Professor Miller added:“Our students and staff tell us that they feel a real sense of belonging at the university and we want to ensure this is extended to our local communities.
“The initiative is a small yet impactful way to help others – especially during what is a challenging time financially for many people – and could make a real difference to someone’s day.”
The latest initiative from UWS comes after the university announced that it would be offering students free breakfasts every weekday to help them fuel up for their studies, in a move to support them with the rising cost of living.