Basic Needs

Basic Needs refers to access to essential services that impact overall health and well-being. Basic needs resources include access to nutritious food, stable housing, healthcare, childcare, transportation, and financial resources.

If you are worried that a student may need support with their basic needs or financial stressors, you can submit a referral to the Student Assistance Center. Our staff will then reach out to provide support.

Learn about the Emergency Dean Fund and how the fund may help eligible students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses because of a temporary hardship related to an emergency.

Emergency Food Bag Program, May 15-Aug 14, Bag Pickup: Wednesdays 1-4 pm feature graphic with grocery bag illustration against bright green background

Emergency Food Bag Program

  • Dates: May 15-August 14, 2024
  • Bag Pickup: Wednesdays | 1:00-4:00 pm
  • Location: Turner Student Services Building
    (610 E. John St.)
  • To schedule your pickup email basicneeds@illinois.edu

Struggling to make ends meet? We're here to help!
Pick up an emergency food bag filled with non-perishable food items and personal care products, courtesy of our dedicated team.

Limit one bag per week. Open to current UIUC students. Presented by the Food Assistance & Well-being Program.

Emergency Food Bag Program flyer (pdf)

 

Resources by Category

View of salad, roll, and apple on table

Food

Resources to identify safe and nutritious food.

Man sitting in front of brick wall talking on cell phone

Housing & Utilities

Resources to help maintain safe and stable housing and utilities.

Closeup view of the corner of a dollar bill

Financial Assistance

Resources to help with immediate and long-term needs, such as emergencies and employment.

Closeup view of hand using stethoscope

Healthcare

Resources to identify medical, dental, or mental health treatment, including resources for securing health insurance and finding care providers.

Mother and son smiling on campus

Childcare

Resources to assist with accessing childcare.

Buses and cars on Green Street in winter

Transportation

Resources to assist with transportation options in order to access vital services such as health care, social and nutritional services, jobs, as well as family and friends and stores.

 
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View of Foellinger Auditorium on Main Quad in summer with students walking and hanging out

Information regarding community resources is also available through United Way’s 211 Program.

To apply for SNAP, cash, or medical assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services, you may access the application through Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE).

More resources lists are also available from the University YMCA and the School of Social Work.

If you have any questions about accessing resources on campus or in the Champaign-Urbana community, please contact:

Campus Benefits Navigator

  • Abisola F. Smith, M.S. Psychological Science
    Assistant Director for Basic Needs Coordination
  • Phone: 217-333-0050
  • Email: basicneeds@illinois.edu

HOUSE Liaison

  • Abisola F. Smith, M.S. Psychological Science
    Assistant Director for Basic Needs Coordination
  • Phone: 217-333-0050
  • Email: basicneeds@illinois.edu