Food Resources
William & Mary provides comprehensive meal support for community members by coordinating across the university and with local organizations to address food insecurity. This includes partnership between Student Affairs, W&M Dining, Food for All, the Wesley Foundation (campus ministry) and local food pantries.
Immediate and Short-Term Resources
Emergency Meal Swipes
W&M Dining and Care Support Services provide W&M students access to meal swipes that can be used in campus dining halls. This anonymous program lets students use the allocated swipes with their Tribe Card, just as they would with a meal plan.
Students may request support through Care Support Services, which will conduct a confidential needs consultation. Once approved, students will receive 10 meal swipes that can be used at W&M Dining facilities simply by swiping their Tribe Card.
Campus Food Exchange at Sadler Center
Open all hours Sadler is open, the Campus Food Exchange in Room 157 is a confidential program open every week school is in session. Students, faculty and staff members can pick up nonperishable food, household products and personal hygiene products. The exchange is located in the lower level of Sadler, in the hallway next to the old post office boxes and past the Haven. The food exchange is managed by Food for All, a student organization.
Campus Food Exchange at Wesley House
The Wesley House location at 526 Jamestown Road offers similar products, plus perishable food. During the school year, it is open 1-3 p.m. on Mondays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Thursdays and 3-5 p.m. on Saturdays. It is also available by appointment; email Campus Minister Ryan LaRock at ryanlarock@vaumc.org for an appointment. The food exchange is managed by Food for All, a student organization.
House of Mercy
Though not affiliated with William & Mary, House of Mercy offers housing, meal and food resources just off campus at 10 Harrison Avenue. The organization has a drive-thru food pantry (no registration required) from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursdays, as well as a food pantry (registration required) during the same times on Wednesdays. In addition, House of Mercy serves fresh meals at its community kitchen from 12-1 p.m. every weekday. Hours may change; check House of Mercy's website or contact them for the most current information.
Emergency Funds
The Health Emergency and Resources for the Tribe (HEART) Fund helps enrolled students who are dealing with financial hardships due to extenuating circumstances. HEART Funds can be used to meet basic needs, including food, lodging, medical and mental health, transportation and essential educational supplies.
Long-term Resources
Meal Plan Assistance Scholarships
Managed through Financial Aid and funded through the dining contract with Aramark, this scholarship is provided to students with demonstrated financial need. For the 2024/2025 academic year, students can receive $1,500 per semester or up to $3,000 if they stay enrolled in a meal plan for the full year.
SNAP Benefits
Students may qualify for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), depending on resources and income. SNAP benefits are accepted in the Student Exchange, Tribe Market and the Williamsburg Farmer's Market, among other local sites. Visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture's webpage devoted to Student SNAP Benefits to learn more about the program and how to apply.