Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is recognized annually across the country to bring awareness to critical issues surrounding hunger and homelessness. In light of this week, the Basic Needs Center's commitment to supporting students in meeting their fundamental needs addresses food- and housing-insecurity head on.
We acknowledge the existence of hunger and homelessness on our campus. At UCI, 46% of undergraduate students and 37% of graduate students face food-insecurity, while 6.5% of undergraduates and 4.8% of graduates experience homelessness. These numbers are a result of the 2023 UCGSES Survey and 2024 UCUES Survey section on Basic Needs and Affordability.
Any student facing food- and housing-insecurity are encouraged to make use of the resources the Basic Needs Center has to offer. We are dedicated to ensuring access to vital basic needs services for the student body.
Resources at the Basic Needs Center
FRESH and Mobile Pantry Services
Currently enrolled UCI students can access our pantry services once a week where food items and toiletries are provided. The FRESH Pantry is located at our center, while the Mobile Pantry operates on the first Friday of each month at a designated location.
Visit our Pantries webpage to view service hours and book an appointment.
CalFresh Application Assistance
CalFresh (also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP) is a nutrition assistance program sponsored by the USDA that helps people purchase healthy foods. The program issues monthly electronic benefits on an EBT card that can be used at most grocery stores and farmers markets. Eligible students can receive up to $292 per month to buy groceries.
Our trained Basic Needs Advocates provide application assistance through confidential 1-1 sessions both in-person and virtually over Zoom.
Visit our CalFresh Application Assistance webpage to learn more about eligibilities, the application process, and book an appointment.
Emergency Meal Swipes
Emergency Meal Swipes (EMS) is an application-based service that helps students who are experiencing food insecurity and/or a student-related emergency, access several healthy and well-balanced meals offered at UCI’s Dining Commons.
For more information, visit our Emergency Meal Swipes page.
Short-Term Grocery Card Support
Any student facing food-insecurity and challenges obtaining food assistance can apply for the Grocery Card Support Program. Eligible students will receive an electronic grocery card for use at any Albertsons Stores (Pavilions, Vons, etc.).
For more information, visit our Short-Term Grocery Card Support page
Basic Needs Sponsored Housing
Basic Needs Sponsored Housing provides up to 30-days of temporary housing with a meal plan at UCI for students who are currently facing homelessness per the McKinney-Vento definition.
For more information, visit our Basic Needs Sponsored Housing page.
Campus Social Worker Consultations
Any student experiencing food/housing insecurity, financial stress, and other stressors can connect with a Campus Social Worker to receive support navigating these challenges.
For more information and to book an appointment, visit our Campus Social Worker page.
