In recent weeks, a Facebook group named "Novosađanke studentima" has garnered attention for its significant role in supporting student protests ongoing across Serbia.

The protests were sparked by a tragic incident at the railway station in Novi Sad that resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals, including a six-year-old child.

Demonstrators are calling for full political and criminal accountability regarding the accident and are advocating for reforms to establish a functioning legal state where institutions operate independently.

The movement has seen increasing support from various citizen organizations and individuals, some of whom actively participate in protests, while others offer professional services free of charge.

The Facebook group has emerged as a vital source of logistical support, delivering cooked meals, medicines, hygiene products, and other essential supplies to protesting students in Novi Sad.

Formed in late December 2024, the group quickly attracted over 1,000 active members within the first week, with this number continuing to grow.

While predominantly comprised of women, men also participate in the group's activities.

Đura Ćurčić, an entrepreneur and member of the group, noted that their efforts are founded on the principles of civic solidarity, emphasizing community support in times of need.

Members of the group regularly prepare and deliver meals to students residing at universities, coordinating schedules to ensure that no faculty is overlooked.

The group operates under a collaborative model, where any member intending to deliver food will first post details in the group, allowing others to monitor needs and logistical arrangements.

As winter weather sets in, the students' needs have evolved, requiring not just food but also cold medication and cleaning supplies, as they take on the responsibility of maintaining their living spaces.

According to Ćurčić, the students are well-organized and maintain updated lists of necessary items for each faculty, simplifying the logistics of the support they receive.

Funding for these initiatives primarily comes from the group members themselves, complemented by donations collected through a dedicated account.

This financial model allows members to manage resources efficiently, ensuring the sustainability of their assistance efforts.

The number of meals prepared fluctuates daily, with the group able to mobilize between 10 to 40 cooks, preparing hundreds of meals.

Contributions also come from community members who assist with purchasing supplies, donating money, and delivering food.

The group has successfully coordinated large quantities of food, leading to surplus provisions that are redirected to those in need.

Efforts by the group are characterized by a strong sense of community and entrepreneurial spirit.

For example, one of the group's members mobilized resources to prepare a meal on a day when the group faced packaging shortages, demonstrating the effectiveness of their collaborative approach.

As the need for student support continues, the group emphasizes a model of practical aid over advice, allowing students to articulate their needs and preferences.

The involvement of local businesses has also increased, with some companies offering resources like printing services for fundraising campaigns, further integrating civic engagement into the support network.

The ongoing situation highlights a significant convergence of civic engagement and grassroots activism, demonstrating the impact of collective efforts in addressing community challenges.

Residents of Novi Sad are finding strength in solidarity, as the grassroots initiatives embody a powerful example of public cooperation in a time of crisis.