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Every year, college students face the challenge of equipping their dorm rooms or apartments with essential items. As the academic year progresses, they encounter another significant hurdle: managing their belongings during move-out. At Western Michigan University (WMU), the S.H.E. Shed (Sustainable Housing Equipment Shed) has emerged as a practical solution, serving as a free store dedicated to fulfilling students’ furnishing needs.
Located within WMU’s Office of Sustainability at 2529 W. Michigan Ave in Kalamazoo, this initiative is entirely student-run, aiming to reduce waste while promoting sustainability in student housing. The shed is stocked with various donated goods, ranging from kitchenware and school supplies to decorative items that enhance students’ living experiences.
The inception of the S.H.E. Shed
The S.H.E. Shed was conceived by Maddie Christians, a graduate student at WMU, who recognized the need for a supportive environment where students could access useful items without financial strain. During her undergraduate years, Christians observed an alarming trend: many still-usable items were discarded in dumpsters during moving periods. This observation sparked her desire to create a resource that would assist students while advocating for sustainable practices.
Understanding the need for a community resource
While pursuing her degree, Christians engaged in discussions about student support within higher education. “We’re going to be supporting them with their food and stuff,” she remarked, referencing existing resources like WMU’s food pantry. However, she questioned, “What does their space look like? Does that feel like home?” This reflection led to the understanding that a comfortable living environment is crucial for student well-being.
By 2025, Christians, along with her peers, began brainstorming ideas for a free store. Initially, the concept was just a dream, but as she continued her master’s studies at WMU, she revisited the project. Participation in WMU’s Starting Gate business accelerator program helped her refine her vision and bring the S.H.E. Shed to fruition.
Operational framework and sustainability goals
The S.H.E. Shed operates with funding from WMU’s student sustainability grant, ensuring its viability as a community resource. Volunteers are essential to the shed’s daily operations, assisting students in navigating the collection of donated items. Donations typically peak during the fall and spring semesters, aligning with move-in and move-out periods, while the holiday seasons also contribute to the shed’s offerings.
Student engagement and future aspirations
To access the store, students simply scan their student IDs, allowing them to shop once a month. This process fosters a sense of community, encouraging students who benefit from the shed’s resources to later return items in good condition for others to use. Christians hopes to cultivate a circular economy among the student body, promoting sustainability and minimizing waste.
Looking ahead, the S.H.E. Shed plans to expand its reach, potentially opening its doors to the broader Kalamazoo community. This expansion aims to provide even more individuals with access to essential household items, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability while fostering community support.
For those interested in utilizing the S.H.E. Shed’s services, operational hours and guidelines are readily available through WMU’s Office of Sustainability resources. This innovative initiative not only assists students in creating comfortable living spaces but also champions sustainable practices that benefit the entire community.