Purposity
Purposity is an organization that UW-Madison has partnered with to help bridge the gap between interested donors and students in need. Its name comes from purpose + generosity and Purposity’s vision is to inspire us to live generously by connecting people to doing good. No matter your challenge, you are not in this alone! Purposity requests are intended to support students experiencing current struggles meeting their daily basic needs. If you have a basic need that can help you be more successful, such as hygiene products, clothing, or food, we encourage you to consider submitting a request below.
How it Works
It’s pretty simple. Review the steps below and share any questions with the team: basic.needs@finaid.wisc.edu.
- Complete the request form below.
- The Basic Needs Team will review the information. The review is to ensure that the request meets all the requirements to be posted on the Purposity application.
- Once the need is posted to Purposity, members of our community will be able to consider meeting your request.
- When the need is fulfilled, the item will be shipped to the address noted in the request form. If the item is shipped to the Office of Student Financial Aid (333 East Campus Mall), then the Basic Needs team will work on a pick-up time once the item arrives.
Keep in mind, the Basic Needs team is unable to guarantee when and if a donor will be able to fill the request.
If a request is not filled within 90 days, it will be archived. The Basic Needs team will notify the requestor if an item is being archived.
The Requirements
These requirements are important to ensure that your request can be posted to the Purposity. Please be as thorough as possible in your request to ensure timeliness in the posting process.
- Requested items cannot exceed $80.
- Share a link to Amazon for the item(s) you are requesting. Include essential details if requesting clothing items (sizing, color, etc.)
- Requested items much be to meet an essential basic needs. The Basic Needs team may request further clarification if necessary.
Toiletries
Examples: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, body wash, etc.
Kitchen Essentials
Examples: Plates, utensils, rice cooker, etc.
Clothes
Examples: T-shirts, pants, socks, undergarments, tennis shoes, etc.
Winter Gear
Examples: Winter jacket, hats, gloves, boots, etc.
School Supplies
Examples: Writing utensils, backpack, notebooks, calculators, etc.
Household Essentials
Examples: Dish soap, laundry detergent, fabric softener, toilet paper, etc.
What NOT to request:
Items requested through Purposity are intended to support essential basic needs. Items such as desks, bookshelves, suitcases, gift cards, and smartwatches will not be approved. Additionally, perishable food or other food requests will likely not be approved. If you have a special request due to dietary restrictions, please share this note in your request form.