Supporting Student Basic Needs

student basic needs

Did you know that nearly 3 in 5 college students experienced basic needs insecurity in 2020? More than half of students showed signs of food insecurity, 40% experienced housing insecurity, and 10% experienced homelessness. So why are college students struggling?

Nationally, there has been a decrease in public funding for higher education, a steep increase in tuition rates, and more students entering college. This means that in order for universities to accommodate their many students while facing budget cuts, they are increasing their tuition which many students are unable to pay along with their basic needs. 

In order to save money to take care of their basic needs like food and housing, many students take a break from their education. This can create another problem, as only 20% of students who pause their education for financial reasons eventually graduate. Low income students who enroll in college to increase their economic success are then left in a worse situation than where they started. 

Many students are aware that there are programs to help them with their basic needs, but they are unaware as to how to apply or even if they are eligible. Helping students become aware of the many options they have to help support themselves while they pursue higher education will help more students graduate.

To learn more about programs to support students and how these programs can help more students graduate, take a look at the infographic below: