The Story of the Comfort Cabinet
The Comfort Cabinet was a pilot project created as a part of Thi Lettner's 2022 E. Lingle Craig Fellowship. The resources provided within this guide and the cabinet were created with the students of IU in mind. Interviews with IUB students who experienced homelessness and organizations both at IU and in Bloomington helped create this resource that took a modest step to creating a space in the library that was truly for anyone.
Message from the creator
"This project could not have been completed without the help of my mentors; Leanne Nay, Anna Marie Johnson, Misti Shaw, and Davy McDonald. Thank you for your guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support. To the organizations that met with me, I am grateful for your time and am constantly inspired by the tireless work your organizations do to support the community. To students, I am with you, and I encourage you to seek help somewhere, somehow. We shall persist." - t
The Comfort Cabinet at Indiana University
The Comfort Cabinet is a resource designed to support students who experience homelessness and housing insecurity. Following the policy of "take what you need, no questions asked" students are welcome to visit the cabinet and take any personal hygiene or schools supplies provided in the drawers of the cabinet. In addition to taking some small items, students are encouraged to explore the organizations featured on this research guide and in the promotional material in the cabinet. There is a wide variety of support both at Indiana University and in the Bloomington community for students who are experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. From legal counseling to rent controlled housing to locations of local food pantries, there are organizations designed to support your educational journey. Explore the "Indiana University Organizations" and "Bloomington, IN Organizations" pages to learn more about the support systems at Indiana University and in Bloomington IN organizations designed to promote housing security.
Finding The Comfort Cabinet
The Comfort Cabinet at Indiana University is located in the hallway near the 2nd floor restrooms of the Wells Library West Tower. This tower is open 24/7.
- Map to the Comfort Cabinet
Follow the green arrows to find The Comfort Cabinet at IU.
Written Descriptions:
(When entering from the South entrance of the Wells Library, the entrance closest to the parking lot)
1. After entering the lobby, turn left into the first entrance to the West Tower.
2. Continue straight down this main hallway.
3. Turn right into the second hallway, towards the restrooms.
4. Continue down this hall way, passing the restrooms
5. Look right. The Comfort Cabinet should be halfway down this hallway by the vending machine of school supplies.
Wells Library Address: 1320 E 10th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405
Picture of The Comfort Cabinet
