Maize and Blue Cupboard

Accessing food resources is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but unfortunately, some students may face additional challenges accessing sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food. The Maize and Blue Cupboard (MBC) is available to  students as an on-campus food resource by offering them healthy and nutritious food for free, in a grocery-store-like space. 

Maize & Blue Cupboard is open Monday-Friday from 3pm to 7pm and Sundays from 2pm to 6pm. They are closed on Saturdays. Even if your need is not extreme, stop by MBC just to check it out.. If you leave without taking any food, no harm done, but at least you will have the option to grab something you may need. Everything from MBC is free.

If you’re interested in helping out at MBC, there are three main ways to do so. Donations of goods or money are accepted,  but if you are unable to contribute those, time donations work as well! Sign up to volunteer at MBC via the website.

MBC also has healthy recipes on the website, if you need ideas on what to make for dinner, check it out! Recipes are also free!

If you or someone you know is in need, check out our to-do guide for making a easy trip to MBC:

  1. Go to the MBC website: https://mbc.studentlife.umich.edu/. At the top of the page, click “Create your appointment to shop.” A reservation calendar will pop up to make an appointment. Pick a date and time that works for you!
  2. On the day of your appointment, take Maynard Street over to Betsy Barbour residence hall. Don’t forget to bring a reusable bag if you have one to put your food in! There will be signs guiding you to the basement of the hall, where MBC is located.
  3. Have your ResponsiBLUE and student ID ready, and a volunteer will check them when you come in. Wash your hands at a wash station, put gloves on, and grab a basket. You’re ready to shop!
  4. Take items that you need and will use. There may be limits on popular items, but there is plenty of food to choose from. MBC offers fresh produce, meat, dairy, grains, condiments, lots of canned goods, and a variety of other necessities like school supplies or hygiene products.
  5. Bag up your products at the bagging station. No need to check in with anyone else before you leave - you are good to go!