
Assist students with short-term financial solutions to unexpected needs in areas such as temporary housing, food insecurity, and medical emergencies by making a gift to the Basic Needs Emergency Fund—or give to the Big Orange Pantry. The Pantry is an on-campus, free retail operation providing pantry staples, fresh produce, prepackaged meals, and personal care items in partnership with community and campus resources. Approximately 250 students/staff/faculty visit the Pantry daily.

Ensure Every Volunteer Thrives
At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, we believe that every student should have access to the resources they need to succeed—both in and out of the classroom. This year’s Big Orange Give focuses on raising $40,000 to support the Center for Basic Needs, which provides critical support to students facing significant challenges.
Your contribution can make a direct impact on the lives of students who are striving to balance their academic responsibilities with the challenges of meeting their basic needs.
Why Your Support Matters
Our recent campus-wide assessment highlights the urgent need for comprehensive support on campus. Key findings include:
- 59% of students experienced at least one type of basic needs insecurity in the past year.
- 1 in 3 students faced food insecurity, including skipping meals and running out of food.
- 47% of students struggled with housing insecurity, including challenges related to rent, utilities, and unsafe living conditions.
Where Your Donation Goes
Big Orange Pantry
The Big Orange Pantry supports over 15,000 visits each semester. Your donations help cover the costs of fresh fruit and vegetables, shelf-stable pantry staples, and hygiene products.
Basic Needs Emergency Fund
Last year, we awarded over $79,000 to more than 130 people. This fund is essential for students facing unexpected financial crises, ensuring they can continue their pursuits on campus. Your support goes directly to a student in the midst of an emergency.
Basic Needs Enrichment Fund
Basic needs emergencies and support strategies vary greatly. This fund allows our team to be dynamic in creating new and innovative solutions to support students. Your support allows us to provide resources that are increasingly more accessible and inclusive to trends and challenges facing students.
Smokey’s Closet
Smokey’s Closet provides professional clothing for interviews, class presentations, and other important events. Additional donations will help establish wardrobe scholarships or grants.
Donors
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