At Cal State Monterey Bay, every student deserves the basics to stay healthy and do well in school. The Basic Needs team helps students get food, housing, health care and emergency money when life gets hard.
Many CSUMB students face serious challenges. More than half have had trouble getting enough food. Nearly 16 out of every 100 students have had no safe place to live during the past year. These problems make it harder to stay in school — and that’s why we’re here to help.
The Basic Needs team offers support one-on-one. We connect students to on-campus programs and off-campus resources. We work with care to find solutions that meet each student’s needs.
If you or someone you know needs help, start by filling out the Basic Needs Referral Form . You can also email us or make an appointment to get support with CalFresh or summer resources.
CalFresh gives monthly grocery money to students who qualify. It helps stretch your budget and makes it easier to buy healthy food. We can help with checking if you qualify and filling out the application.
The Hub is CSUMB’s on-campus food pantry. It’s located in Building 12, Room 152. Students can pick up groceries, produce and snacks, and talk with staff about other resources.
The Emergency Fund offers one-time help for students going through a crisis, like a medical bill or housing issue. Our team works quickly and with care.
FreshAccess gives students free vouchers to use at local farmers markets. This helps students eat fresh fruits and vegetables while also supporting local farms.
Eat Well, Be Well is a CSUMB-made guide to help students learn about healthy eating. It shares easy tips on meal planning and how to eat well during college.
If you need help with housing, including short-term or emergency options, the Basic Needs team can connect you to local programs. We also share information about shelters and safe parking.
Mental health help is available through the Personal Growth and Counseling Center. They offer counseling, workshops and 24/7 support for students in crisis.
For hygiene needs, students can get free items like soap, toothbrushes and menstrual products at The Hub and at the Toiletry Pantry in the Otter Student Union.
If you don’t have regular access to a shower, students can use campus showers in the Otter Sports Center, the Gambord Business and IT building or the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.
CSUMB supports students who are also parents. The Parenting Scholar Program offers diapers, formula and family-friendly events. There are also study spaces designed for parents and kids.
Students can use lactation rooms and baby-changing stations across campus. Parenting students are encouraged to fill out the Basic Needs Referral Form or sign up for the Parenting Student Registry to get updates and stay connected.
This weekly virtual cooking series teaches students how to cook quick, affordable meals. Each session focuses on easy recipes and tips for saving time and money.
Students who attend full sessions can get a grocery gift card up to four times each semester. Faculty and staff can also join in and share their favorite college meals.
CSUMB works with many local organizations that help with food, housing, legal advice, health care and more. You can explore these resources in the Basic Needs Resource Guide.
Stay Connected
The Basic Needs team is here for you.
Help is Available
Get connected with the resources that can help you stay well, secure and on track.
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