Rally Cat's Cupboard

The Cupboard is a student-run food pantry that is open to any member of the UVM and greater Burlington community - no questions asked. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that is administered by the Food Systems Graduate Program.

Rally Cat's Cupboard is UVM's on-campus food pantry. Located on the first floor of the Davis Center, it is run by students and available to all members of the UVM community. 

Initially part of the Student Government Association, Rally Cat's Cupboard moved to the Food Systems Graduate Program in UVM's Graduate College in Fall 2022. 

Mission Statement

Rally Cat’s Cupboard is a student-run food pantry at UVM that seeks to address food insecurity among the campus community. We believe that no one at UVM should have to struggle with hunger. Through a lens of empathy and understanding, we hope to create a welcoming environment in which we work collaboratively to improve access to nutritious food and advocate for food security initiatives at UVM.

Rally in Rally Cat's Cupboard

Find Us

Located on the first floor of the Davis Center.
Rally Cats Cupboard Donations

Follow Us on Instagram

Keep up to date on our social media
Helpers for Rally Cats Cupboard

Get Involved

Interested in volunteering? Want to make a donation? Want to partner with the cupboard? Please send an email to cupboard@uvm.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours of operation?

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For the most up-to-date information about our hours of operation, check our Instagram. 

What should I expect visiting the cupboard?

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The cupboard is generally open twice a week for two hours. We strive to create a welcome and pleasant space for everyone. We do ask anyone visiting the cupboard any questions about their need. We are happy to see you and want this to be a good experience! We expect that anyone visiting the cupboard is respectful of the student volunteers and cupboard customers. Note, we do not put all food items out when the cupboard opens; we hold some items back and re-stock during the distribution, so there is hopefully enough for everyone, and no one feels the need to rush in right when the cupboard opens. If there is an item that you need, and you do not see it on the shelves, ask one of the volunteers. Sometimes we may have an item in storage or be able to source it for you. 

Who should I contact if I am interested in volunteering?

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Contact allison.spain@uvm.edu if you'd like to volunteer. We are always looking for more help!

Can I visit the cupboard?

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If you would like to visit the cupboard to learn more about cupboard operations (but are not in need of food), please reach out to allison.spain@uvm.edu to set up a time. While we welcome visitors, our distribution hours are very busy, and it is difficult to accommodate visitors during those times without advance warning. We also respect the privacy of our clients. Visitors are not allowed to photograph and/or record distributions at the cupboard.

How can I bring in donations?

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There is a donation bin in the hallway outside of the Cupboard where non-perishable donations can be left at any time. Please do not leave any perishable items in the donation bin, and please check expiration dates on any items you drop off.

For larger donations of multiple bags/boxes of items, please reach out to allison.spain@uvm.edu to coordinate a pick up/drop off time. 

What items can be donated?

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We are always looking for the following:

  • Granola bars
  • Pasta
  • Shelf-stable milks
  • Canned fish (tuna, sardines, salmon)
  • Canned chicken
  • Rice (Basmati and Jasmine)
  • Cooking oils
  • Canned vegetables
  • Juice
  • Laundry detergent/pods
  • Dish soap
  • Baby care items (diapers, wipes)
  • Soap, shampoo, body wash
  • Paper towels, sponges, and household cleaning items