Get Support

Get Support

How to Access Support 

The Basic Needs Center (BNC) offers multiple pathways to ensure you get the support you need in the way that works best for you.

  • Online: The Basic Needs Assistance Form (BNAF) is our primary entry point for individualized support.

  • Visit Us (Drop-In): Stop by our Welcome Center for immediate information, general questions about basic needs resources, support with CalFresh questions, or help completing forms.

  • Schedule an Appointment: We offer virtual and in-person appointments for students who prefer a conversation over an online form, are experiencing complex situations, are interested in applying for CalFresh, or are facing technology barriers.

Eligibility

All enrolled students, including grad, undergrad, international, and undocumented students, may connect with our team. 

Staff and faculty should connect with:

To Connect

Online

Our Assistance Form is prioritized for students with complex and urgent needs. Our goal is to provide short-term relief to stabilize students experiencing urgent basic-needs insecurity. While support is limited and may not meet every ongoing need, we aim to reduce immediate barriers and connect students with our internal emergency relief programs. Students who are unhoused or will be unhoused within 72 hours can expect a response within 2 business days. Students with other needs can expect a response within 3-5 business days.

Visit Us

The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday from 1:00-4:30pm, and is located on the first floor of MLK Student Union, suite 107 (right next to the Cal Student Store). 

Schedule an Appointment

Basic Needs Appointment: Students facing challenges with access to adequate food, stable housing, financial resources, or other areas of basic needs are encouraged to connect with a BNC Care Coordination team member. During these appointments, Care Coordinators will review the most relevant resources accessible to students experiencing basic needs insecurities.

CalFresh Application Assistance Appointments: Students wanting support with a new CalFresh application can book an appointment. For general questions or troubleshooting, please visit the BNC during Open Hours.

Contact Us

Assistance Form

Emergency Fund Student FAQs