A Helping Hand is Always Near
If you're struggling with essentials like food, housing, clothing, or transportation, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Penn State is here with support and connects you with resources and services to help you stay safe, healthy, and focused on your goals.
Start with Support
If you’re having difficulty accessing food, housing medical care, or other basic needs and would like support navigating your situation, complete a Basic Needs Request Form for yourself or someone you know. A knowledgeable case manager from your campus will follow up to offer personalized guidance.
Support for Food, Housing, and Basic Needs
If you’re navigating challenges related to food, housing, or everyday essentials, you’re not alone—and support is available. Penn State and community partners offer a range of resources to help you stay stable, supported, and focused on your success, no matter where you are in your journey.
-
Food
Access to food should be simple and stigma-free. Penn State offers a variety of options to help you stay nourished and supported.
- The Lion’s Pantry
Provides direct access to food and basic needs for students—no questions asked. - Campus Mini-Pantries
Convenient locations across campus offer quick access to food and essentials, including Helping Hands Depot, Pod’s Pantry, PAW Pantry, PRIDE Pantry, and more. Most are open daily during the academic year and available to all students. - Commonwealth Campus Food Pantries
Many campuses offer local pantry options to support students where they are. Find a list of pantries here. - Feed the People Market Stand
Fresh, student-grown produce available through the Student Farm. - Basic Needs Support Hub
Located in 222 Boucke, the Basic Needs Support Hub provides additional essentials like toiletries, clothing, and other basic items during business hours. - Penn State Dining
Dining locations across campus offer accessible meal options and support programs.
Housing
Finding stable housing is an important part of student success. Resources are available to help you explore options and get support when needed.
- On-Campus Housing
University housing options provide a range of living environments designed to support student life. - Off-Campus Support
Guidance and resources are available to help you navigate off-campus housing options and challenges.
Medical
Taking care of your health is essential. Coverage options are available to help you access care when you need it.
- Student Health Insurance Plan for Penn State
Penn State offers a comprehensive insurance option for students. Explore coverage details to determine what works best for you.
Clothing
Access to clothing—whether everyday essentials or professional attire—can help you feel prepared and confident.
- Professional Attire Closet
Find free professional clothing to support interviews, internships, and career opportunities. - The Clothing Transit Clothing Exchange
Students can obtain or exchange clothing and accessories at no cost.
Financial Skills
Building financial confidence can make a meaningful difference during college and beyond. Support is available to help you make informed decisions.
- Financial and Life Skills Support
Explore resources, coaching, and tools to help you budget, manage expenses, and plan ahead. - Nutrition Planning on a Budget
Schedule a free appointment with a registered dietitian to build a healthy meal plan that fits your budget.
- The Lion’s Pantry
-
Local organizations offer additional support for food, housing, and basic needs.
- Centre Helps
24/7 support and referrals for mental health, housing, food, and more, including emergency food access. - Housing Transitions
Provides emergency shelter, rehousing support, and services for individuals and families experiencing housing instability. - Centre Safe
Confidential services and support for those impacted by interpersonal violence, including a 24/7 hotline and shelter. - St. Andrew’s Community Café
Free meals and a welcoming space for anyone in the community. - Abba Java Coffee House
A community space offering free coffee, light food, and connection. - Find Local Resources
Use PA 211 or FindHelp to connect with services in your area.
- Centre Helps
-
Programs in Pennsylvania and beyond can provide additional support for food access, housing assistance, and financial stability. These resources are available to help meet essential needs and may offer ongoing support beyond what is available on campus.
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Students may be eligible based on work-study status, employment, or financial need. SNAP benefits can be used at select campus locations for eligible food items. - Medicaid / Medical Assistance
Students without insurance may qualify based on income and eligibility criteria. - Additional Pennsylvania Programs
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services offers a range of support programs. Your local County Assistance Office can help you navigate available options. - WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program)
Provides nutrition support for eligible individuals and families. - Lifeline (Internet Assistance)
A federal program that helps reduce the cost of phone or internet service for eligible individuals.
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
Health Concerns
Most students will encounter some form of health issue during their time as a student. While we hope these occurrences are minor, there are sure to be situations involving students who are sick, injured, or dealing with significant medical or mental health challenges that disrupt their academic pursuits.
Mental health is a basic need, too.
Worrying about basic needs while balancing is all takes a toll. Connect with Counseling and Psychological Services to find care that fits your needs and schedule.
Show Up for Each Other
Supporting your fellow students is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen our community. Whether you’re passionate about food security, sustainability, or social change, there are student-led groups and volunteer opportunities where you can make a difference.
The Lion's Pantry
Volunteer your time to help keep the pantry running, organize food drives, or donate non-perishable food and basic household supplies to support peers facing food insecurity.
Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm at Penn State
Get involved in sustainable agriculture and food education while helping increase access to healthy, locally grown produce.
Students United Against Poverty
Join a student-powered movement working toward equity and poverty alleviation through education, outreach, and direct action.
Food Recovery Network
Help recover surplus food from campus dining halls and redistribute it to local agencies that feed community members in need.
