Montgomery Essential Needs

Students volunteering at Bronco Boxes

Your support of Montgomery Essential Needs helps WMU students thrive

Your monetary support, donations and volunteer support of Montgomery Essential Needs helps support WMU students and ensure their basic needs are met. 

We couldn't do it without you

Montgomery Essential Needs' ability to support Western Michigan University students is made possible through the amazing generosity of WMU faculty, staff, students, alumni and the Greater Kalamazoo area community. We thank you for your support!

 

Montgomery Essential Needs
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5292 USA
(269) 387-0706

Donate funds

If you would like to support a specific Montgomery Essential Needs program or initiative, cash donations can be given through the links below. 

Broncos. Period.

Providing short- and long-term assistance to all menstruating individuals on campus.

Make a gift

Books for Broncos

Helping all WMU students access required textbooks and other necessary materials for their courses.

Make a gift

Student Emergency Relief Fund

Provides immediate emergency relief for financial needs outside of the expected costs of education.

Make a gift

Bronco Food Pantry

We gratefully accept cash donations and use these funds to purchase food and personal care products needed for the food pantry.

Make a gift

General Montgomery Essential Needs Fund

Funds are used to support the various programs and initiatives of Montgomery Essential Needs and general operations.

Make a gift

Donate items

The Bronco Food Pantry, Broncos. Period., and Cap & Gown Exchange all gladly accept donations. We are available to receive donations for any of these programs at the Bronco Food Pantry, during our operating hours. Please do not leave donated items outside of the Bronco Food Pantry. We will be unable to use those items as they will be compromised by the weather or animals. 

We require all donated food be un-open and within expiration dates. 

  • We accept nonperishable food items and fresh produce from the grocery store or your personal garden.
  • Alcoholic beverages, homemade food items, and expired food are not accepted. 

We are committed to nutrition security and would prefer the following:

  • fruits and vegetables that are low sodium, no sugar added, or packed in water or juice
  • proteins that are low sodium, packed in water 
  • whole grains 

In addition to food, we also distribute personal care and hygiene items. There is a high demand for the following items:

  • oral care items (toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash)
  • shampoo, soap, body wash 
  • deodorant
  • lotion 
  • laundry pods / detergent 
  • dish soap
  • cleaning supplies 

Help us provide period products in bathrooms across campus by donating: 

  • tampons 
  • pads 
  • menstrual cups

Donate your graduation regalia so we can ensure every Bronco has what they need to participate in their commencement ceremony. 

Volunteer

We offer many opportunities for students, faculty and staff to volunteer with Montgomery Essential Needs:

  • Volunteer once or give a few hours each week working in the food pantry
  • Volunteer on an as-needed basis with big donations or projects
  • Assist with events coordinated by Montgomery Essential Needs (as-needed basis)

Please email us if you are interested in volunteering.