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Otterbein Student Resources

This libguide will provide Otterbein students with a centralized repository of resources they have available to them, both on campus and off.

Promise House

"The Promise House is a student-led community resource center and food pantry for Otterbein students that builds community to break down socioeconomic barriers to student success."  (Promise House website)

Founded in 2016 after a student-led discussion about socioeconomic barriers preventing student success, the Promise house has worked ever since to help fill in the gaps in student needs. 

Assistance with Food Insecurity

The Promise House runs a free Food Pantry in their location on the ground floor of the Home Street Commons apartment complex at 86 W. Home Street.  Students who are experiencing food insecurity can shop for groceries at the Promise House at no cost to them.


Some of the groceries available include:

  • Bread
  • Fruit/Vegetables
  • Shelf-stable milk
  • Nuts
  • Butter
  • Cereal
  • Grains
  • Granola Bars
  • Cheese
  • Frozen Meats
  • Condiments
  • Spaghetti Sauce

Emergency Mini-Grants

The Promise House can offer mini-grants to Otterbein students as a result of generous donor funds.  Students experiencing financial need can apply for up to $300 in mini grants (max $75 per grant) per year.

These grants can be used for:

  • car repairs
  • textbooks
  • clothing
  • health expenses

These grants cannot be used for:

  • tuition

Exceptions can be granted to the $300/year limit in special circumstances.  To apply for a mini-grant, submit your application here.

Assistance with Clothing

Do you need to replace some worn-out clothing or purchase something weather appropriate?  The Promise House and the Otterbein Thrift Store have a partnership together that allows students in need to receive free or discounted clothing.  Stop by the Promise House for more information!

Assistance with Referrals

Do you need to be connected to resources both on campus and off?  The Promise House can help you with that!  Student Coordinators at the Promis House can enroll you in things like free tax preparation, assistance with financial aid, and/or enrollment in Columbus-area food assistance programs.

Financial Wellness Information

Are you struggling to figure out a budget that will get you safely through the semester or year?  Are you trying to figure out how to save money amidst all the expenses of being a college student?  Do you need other types of financial advice?  The Promise House hosts a variet of information sessions and workshops for all students, thanks to the help of community and campus partners.

Assistance with School Supplies & Toiletries

Last, but not least, the Promise House can help you with things like school supplies and toiletries/hygiene products.  If you are registered with the Promise House, you can stop by during open hours and select needed items from the pantry.

Promise House Contact Information

The Promise House can be found at:
Home Street Commons Apartment Complex Lounge
86 W. Home Street

Hours: 
See Promise House social media pages for most up to date hours.
Instagram: @promise_house
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/people/
Promise-House/

Phone:
(614-823-2074)

Email:
promisehouse@otterbein.edu

 

 

Volunteering and/or Donating

The Promise House exists with the generosity of donors and volunteers.  If you would like to help out in some way, email them at promisehouse@otterbein.edu, or else call them at 614-823-2074!

What can the Promise House help with?

The Promise House can help students with a variety of different needs.  These are explained in greater detail on their website, which can be found at:

https://www.otterbein.edu/cse/promise-house/