Badger Reclaim
Badger Reclaim supports students by promoting a more sustainable way of living; collecting items no longer needed and redistributing them to fellow Badgers; transforming unwanted goods into resources.
This initiative is made possible through a collaborative partnership between the Office of Student Financial Aid, University Housing, and Mad City Moving. Each team works diligently to support student success and reduce waste in our community.
The Process
Donating
Have any gently or unused items you don’t need or can’t justify taking with you in your move into the next semester? We will gladly take the load off your hands!
By contributing items to this donation process, you are not only supporting sustainable living by limiting waste and repurposing household items, but you are also supporting your community and fellow students’ needs.
Review the “What to Expect for Spring 2026” for details on how to donate.
*Note: Only UW-Madison students are eligible to donate
Claiming
Looking to furnish your space without breaking the bank?
Badger Reclaim is here for you! We’ve gathered gently used household items donated by fellow students to help ease financial stress and make your space feel more like home.
This is a great opportunity to reclaim useful items, practice sustainable living, and be part of a community that looks out for one another.
Claim Requirements
How To Claim
It’s pretty simple. Review eligibility requirements, as well as the two options to claim items. Share any questions with the team: basic.needs@finaid.wisc.edu.
Keep in mind, the claimed items will be first come and first serve. For larger items, only the items listed on the website are available.
Pop-Up Shop
Swing by our Badger Reclaim Pop‑Up and score totally free, gently used essentials. It’s sustainable, budget‑friendly, and fun to see what treasures you’ll find. Grab what you need, lighten your financial load, and help keep good stuff out of the landfill: all in one quick stop.
Save the Date: Thursday, September 3
Stay tuned for more details…
Student Requirements
These requirements are important to ensure that your claim request can be fulfilled.
- Must be an active, enrolled student in the Fall 2026 semester
- For large claims process, maintain active communication with the Basic Needs team
Claim Item Request Form
Larger items that are more difficult to carry will require a claims form. Examples include microwaves, office chairs, headboards, and similar oversized pieces.
This form will be available later in the summer.
Once you submit the form a Basic Needs staff member will respond to your request within 3-5 business days.
- Down below, click the category you want to view and review the available items in the linked document.
- Complete the Claim Item Request Form to claim one or more items. Be sure to note the category and the item name of what you are requesting to claim.
- The Basic Needs Team will review the Request form. The review will ensure the items are still available and the submitter is an eligible student.
- The Basic Needs Team will send a confirmation email of the items claimed and follow-up with delivery/pick-up options.
Large Items to Claim
Check back soon for Items to Claim!
What to Expect for Spring 2026
When to Donate
Friday, May 1 to Tuesday, May 5: 10am-2pm Wednesday, May 6 to Saturday, May 9: 9am-4pm
What to Donate
Gently used or unused storage containers, desk organizers, lamps, shower caddy, fans, mirrors, foot stools, and chairs. Learn more about Housing’s Sustainable Move Out Program below!
Sponsoring Partners
