For UW–Madison students who may need emergency food assistance, there are resources available both on campus and throughout the Madison community to help you maintain access to food. If you are struggling to find affordable food, consider the following options:
Campus Food Resources
Open Seat
Open Seat provides students with access to nutritious and affordable food and hygiene products, including free produce, dairy, and canned goods. Located in the Student Activity Center at 333 East Campus Mall (3rd floor) and the Eagle Heights Community Center at 611 Eagle Heights Dr.
BadgerFARE
BadgerFARE provides immediate Wiscard funds for students facing temporary or ongoing food access concerns to purchase food on campus.
Nutrition Access Program
The Nutrition Access Program offers free frozen, pre-packaged, and microwaveable meals made with unserved food from campus dining locations.
Explore additional food resources on and off campus here.
Community Food Resources
See a map of these community food resources.
Get Year-round Support:
Office of Student Financial Aid
If you find yourself with limited access to food resources, need guidance, support, or someone to talk to, we encourage you to reach out to the Basic Needs team in the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Students who are already receiving need-based financial aid can also request Financial Aid Emergency Support. For questions, contact the office at (608) 262-3060 or finaid@finaid.wisc.edu.
Office of Student Assistance and Support
The Office of Student Assistance and Support connects students to a wide range of support and resources, both on and off campus, throughout the year. Learn about campus food and financial support resources or contact the OSAS team for individual assistance.
Stay Informed
For changes and updates to the Wisconsin FoodShare program, please refer to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website.