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Basic Needs Center

Supporting Student Success at San José City College

The Basic Needs Center at San José City College serves as a central referral hub for on-campus and community resources. We connect students to the services and resources they need to succeed, including zero-cost food resources, housing and utilities assistance, mental health services, technology access, and much more. To review available resources, please visit the Basic Needs tab on the SJCC homepage. Students may also submit a Basic Needs referral form to get started. We are located on the first floor of the Robert N. Chang Student Center, SC105.

Questions? Email: BasicNeeds@sjcc.edu

New Public Benefits Finder for California Students

California Competes has launched a new tool called the Public Benefit Finder for California Students. This resource is designed to help students discover public benefits they may be eligible for, providing essential support to reduce financial burdens and enhance overall well-being.

By utilizing this tool, students can access information on a range of public benefits, including food assistance, housing support, healthcare coverage, and childcare services. Navigating these benefits can significantly improve students' ability to focus on their education without the added stress of financial instability.

Visit the California Competes Public Benefit Finder. Need help getting started? Click "Watch Demo Video" on the tool page for step-by-step guidance.

Screenshot of the California Competes Public Benefit Finder tool interface

RealCollege California 2023: Student Basic Needs Insecurity

This report highlights food and housing insecurity among California college students, revealing financial challenges and their impact on education. It offers key insights for improving student support.

Read the RealCollege California 2023 Report

Department Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Basic Needs Center serves as a central referral hub connecting students to essential on-campus and community resources. Its mission is to ensure students have access to the support services they need to succeed academically and personally.

Basic Needs are the fundamental things a person must have to live with stability and dignity and to be able to focus on learning and personal growth. The Basic Needs Center connects students to essential resources both on-campus and through the community to support optimal well-being and academic success. It is our mission to ensure students feel seen, safe, and a sense of belonging by having access to daily fresh and safe foods, hygiene items, housing support services, childcare, healthcare, mental health services, and technology.

For students, this means:

  • Having enough food to eat every day.
  • Living in safe, stable housing.
  • Being able to get to school (transportation).
  • Having access to healthcare and mental health support.
  • Being able to care for children if they’re parents.
  • Having technology like a laptop or internet to do schoolwork.
  • Feeling safe, included, and supported in their environment.

Without these, learning becomes much harder.

The center offers assistance in several areas, including:

  • Food Resources: Access to zero-cost food through programs like the Jaguar Market and food distribution events.
  • Housing and Utilities Support: Guidance and referrals for housing assistance and utility support.
  • Mental Health Services: Connections to on-campus mental health resources to support student well-being.
  • Technology Access: Technology resources to ensure students can effectively participate in their courses.

Currently enrolled students seeking assistance are encouraged to complete and submit a Basic Needs referral form, which allows the center to assess individual needs and connect students with appropriate resources.

All currently enrolled SJCC students are eligible to access the services provided by the Basic Needs Center. The center is committed to supporting the diverse student population of SJCC by addressing various challenges that may impact academic success.

Yes, the Basic Needs Center regularly hosts workshops and events focused on student well-being. These events help students develop essential skills and connect with valuable resources. Students can check the SJCC website or visit the center for upcoming events.