Smiddy’s Cupboard

Smiddy’s Cupboard and Smiddy’s Express provide non-perishable food items and toiletries to all UVA Wise students in need - both commuters and residential students.

Smiddy’s Cupboard was created by the Committee on Student Hunger & Homelessness (COSHH). It officially opened in August 2018. Smiddy’s Express, located in the Multicultural Center on the 3rd floor of the library, opened in 2023.

On Campus Resources

Smiddy’s Cupboard is located on the lower level of Cantrell Hall, adjacent to the Office of Advocacy and Opportunity. All students will need to have their Cavs ID to access the Cupboard. Remember to complete a survey on the iPad or on paper for every visit. Hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. M-F.

Smiddy’s Express is open 24/7 with a more limited selection of items.

Donate

Smiddy’s Cupboard and Smiddy’s Express is furnished by the generous donations of the UVA Wise community and the community at large.

If you would like to donate, send a check payable to UVA Wise Foundation, 1 College Ave., Wise, VA 24293. For more information, call 276-328-0129. No frozen or perishable items. The majority of the UVA Wise on-campus student population has only microwave access. View suggested donation items.

Community Resources

There are a number of local resources available to UVA Wise students in the city of Norton and the county of Wise.

Local Food Banks

Mountain Empire Older Citizens offers transportation through METGo to the Food Bank of Wise County Inc at 200 Industrial Dr NE in Norton, Stevens Church of God at 802 West Main Street in Wise, and Zion Family Ministries at 1613 Norton Rd SW in Wise.

CommonHelp

CommonHelp is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s way to apply online for many financial assistance programs. Through the CommonHelp website you can find out which assistance you may be eligible for and submit one application saving you time and effort.

You can apply online through CommonHelp on in person at an office for the following programs: child care services, energy assistance, financial assistance programs, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; formerly known as food stamps), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

Professional and Business Clothing

Students in need of professional or business clothing should contact Career Discovery and Planning to utilize Smiddy’s Closet (appointment only). Smiddy’s Closet is located in the Wesley Foundation building.

Suggested Donation Items

Food

  • Jelly/Jam
  • Peanut butter
  • Canned chicken, tuna, etc.
  • Pasta & pasta sauce
  • Crackers, popcorn, chips, etc.
  • Canned fruit
  • Pudding/fruit/applesauce cups
  • Raisins/cranberries
  • Gatorade, teas, and assorted drinks
  • Rice
  • Bottled water, juice, tea, etc.
  • Cereals
  • Individual snacks (chips, pretzels, fruit snacks, granola bars, etc.)
  • Microwavable meals (soups, pastas, ramen noodles, etc.)

Toiletries

  • Deodorant
  • Toilet tissue
  • Paper towels
  • Bar soap/body wash
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Shaving cream/razors
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Toothpaste/toothbrushes
  • Dental Floss
  • Body lotion/moisturizer
  • Laundry detergent (unscented)
  • Sponges and dish soap
  • Paper products-plates, bowls, etc.
  • Plastic utensils (mixed packs)
  • Ziploc bags (regular not freezer) in quart or sandwich size

School Supplies

  • Loose leaf paper & notebooks
  • Calendar/Planners
  • Folders
  • 3 ring binders
  • Pens, pencils & highlighters
  • Index cards
  • Calculators
  • Backpacks

If you have questions about any of the resources or would like to reach out for individualized support please stop by Student Affairs lower level of Cantrell or call 276-328-0214.