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Calhoun Cupboard

Mission Statement

The Calhoun Cupboard empowers our campus community by improving access to nutritious food and essential hygiene items. We fight food insecurity through education, advocacy, and distribution, fostering a supportive environment where our students and employees can thrive.

How to Access the Cupboard

Currently enrolled students and employees may request items from the Calhoun Cupboard twice per month. You may complete the request form below or make an appointment to shop at the Decatur Campus (Wednesdays) or the Huntsville Campus (Tuesdays).

On Campus without Spare Change?

If you are on campus and hungry without the means to buy food, you may visit one of our “grab and go” locations listed below. These stations are typically stocked with snacks and microwaveable items.

Decatur Campus: MSA (building #14), first floor, Hawk’s Lounge

Huntsville Campus: Sparkman (building #1), Student Lounge or STAR Institute

View Campus Map

How You Can Help

  • Monetary Donation: The Calhoun Cupboard has a Foundation account! You can make a one time donation, or employees can set up a payroll deduction for ongoing support. Please list the Calhoun Cupboard in the “department or program” description box.
  • Amazon Wishlist: You can CLICK HERE to access our wishlist. It is updated on an ongoing basis with the most critical Cupboard needs.
  • Drop Off Donations: Please contact Nicole Ricketts at 256-306-2870 or nicole.ricketts@calhoun.edu to coordinate a donation drop-off if you have food or hygiene items to give to the Cupboard.

Items for Donation

We take donations of any shelf-stable items that are within expiration or best buy date on the package. Here are some commonly needed items:
Protein
  • Canned tuna or chicken
  • Vienna sausages
  • Protein bars
  • Peanut butter
  • Canned soups with meat options
  • Chili
Canned Goods
  • Green beans
  • Corn
  • Carrots
  • Potatoes
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Pasta sauce
  • Black beans
Microwaveable Food
  • Easy mac
  • Chef Boyardee
  • Dinty Moore meals
Pasta/Grains
  • Rice (microwaveable or dry)
  • Noodles
  • Ramen (packets and cups)
  • Knorr Sides or Rice-a-Roni
  • Macaroni and cheese (boxes and cups)
  • Mashed potatoes (pouches and cups)
Snacks and Breakfast
  • Oatmeal (packets only)
  • Breakfast or granola bars
  • Pop-Tarts
  • Peanut butter or cheese crackers
  • Fruit snacks
  • Applesauce
  • Fruit cups
  • Pudding cups
  • Microwave popcorn
Basic Hygiene
  • Toilet paper (4-packs only please)
  • Razors and shaving cream
  • Deodorant
  • Soap (bar and body wash)
  • Shampoo/conditioner
  • Lotion
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Toothpaste/toothbrush/floss

Why It Matters

Research has shown that students experiencing food insecurity are more likely:

  • to have a lower GPA
  • to report indicators of stress and depression
  • to have lower class attendance

Over the last year, the Calhoun Cupboard has assisted 115 students and their families through distribution of grocery and hygiene items donated by faculty and staff. By supporting the Calhoun Cupboard, you’re helping ensure that our students have access to the food they need to focus on their studies and succeed in school.

Have Questions?

Nicole Ricketts

Coordinator of Student Advocacy & Accountability