The International HomeStart Closet was begun in the 1990s to meet the needs of International students who arrive in Morgantown to study at WVU. It was started by Women Across Cultures and is now a collaborative effort, led by volunteers and sponsored by Campus and Community Life.
WVU has over 2,300 international students, representing 110 countries. The WVU International HomeStart Closet provides newly arrived international students moving to Morgantown with care packages that are useful in starting a home. When international students arrive in Morgantown, they may have traveled for anything from twelve hours to several days. Everything they have brought with them is in two suitcases and now they must register for classes, comply with immigration requirements, and find a place to live – all in a strange language. Even for students who come from English speaking countries, it can be a considerable challenge!
We aim to offer these students support while they settle in Morgantown by providing them with various household items and basic necessities. Items might include sheets, towels, blankets, pillows, dishes, flatware, glasses, mugs, kettles, pots, pans, skillets, microwaves, coffee makers and rice cookers. Large furniture items are occasionally available, but may also be found at other local stores. The International HomeStart Closet goals are outlined below:
Our Goals
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To provide a starter kit for international students living on and off campus, so that they do not spend their first night on a bare bed.
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To provide basic equipment such as dishes, pots and pans, and linens free of charge to students living on and off campus in apartments and to help fill their other needs where possible.
How it Works
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The HomeStart Closet is located in Stalnaker Hall and is available to WVU international students by request only, as it is not open to the public.
Notice: Please note that clothing items are currently not available through the HomeCloset. Please see the Resources linked below if you are in need of clothing or other items.
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If you are an international student in need of essential home items, please submit a request.
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Once your request is received, a team member will review it to confirm the items that can be provided. Arrangements for pickup will then be made, with pickups available at Stalnaker Hall on the downtown campus on Tuesdays or Thursdays during the academic year.
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If you would like more information or would like us to come and speak to your group, please contact one of us by email or at the phone numbers listed below. We would welcome the opportunity to meet with you!
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Liz Finklea, Community Volunteer Coordinator
- liz.finklea@gmail.com
- 304-685-8312
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Office of Campus and Community Life
- Campuslife@mail.wvu.edu
- 304-293-5611
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Liz Finklea, Community Volunteer Coordinator
