CARES is an acronym that stands for Crisis, Advocacy, Resources, Education, and Support.

The CARES Center works collaboratively with students to secure resources that meet their basic needs. The center works to connect all Kent State students with both on and off-campus resources supporting their financial, food, housing, and mental well-being basic needs.


 

  • Request Basic Needs Assistance

    Request Basic Needs Assistance

    The CARES Center connects students experiencing basic needs challenges with  timely resources. Students can complete the Basic Needs Assistance form to receive one-on-one support from a Case Manager and learn more about available resources. 

  • Providing Support as Faculty and Staff

    Providing Support as Faculty and Staff

    If you know a student with unmet basic needs in the areas of finances, food, housing, and/or mental well-being, please use the Basic Needs Form to refer a student.  

  • Workshops and Opportunities

    Workshops and Opportunities

    Education is key to sustained access to basic needs resources. The CARES Center works to educate students, staff, and faculty about basic needs challenges, associated support resources, and skill development for students.  

  • Make a Flashes’ Food Pantry Reservation

    Make a Flashes’ Food Pantry Reservation

    The Flashes’ Food Pantry works alongside university and community partners to provide students access to nutritious food, allowing them to focus on their academic journey. Follow the link below to make a reservation. 

  • Swipe Out Hunger

    Swipe Out Hunger

    Swipe Out Hunger is a national nonprofit committed to ending college student hunger.  At Kent State, students can donate and request emergency meal swipes. 

  • Step Up Speak Out

    Step Up Speak Out

    Step Up Speak Out is a collaborative effort on campus to assist the campus community with recognizing behavioral signs and symptoms ranging from minimal risk to urgent situations requiring immediate assistance.