Providing Support as Faculty and Staff

Supporting Students Facing Basic Needs Challenges 

Nationally, nearly 3 out of 5 college students experience basic needs insecurities: a lack of consistent access to nutritious food, stable housing, secure finances, and mental well-being. Research shows that this lack of resources can negatively affect a student’s performance in class, their overall academic success, as well as a sense of belonging. We invite faculty, staff, and community members to partner with the CARES Center as we work to connect students with basic needs resources while also removing barriers that prevent students from accessing the support needs to thrive personally and academically.  

At Kent State 

The CARES Center has supported 1003 students through case management since it opened in April of 2021. The Flashes’ Food pantry has hosted 1,096 visits 

How you Can Help 

Faculty and staff can partner with the CARES Center to support students’ access to basic needs resources in many ways. A few helpful examples are listed below. 

Refer a Student  

Use the Basic Needs Referral Form to refer a student to the CARES Center for basic needs care coordination. Our Care Managers are here to work collaboratively with students.  

Help Reduce the Stigma 

Help Reduce the stigma around seeking additional support by making an announcement on the first day of class acknowledging the prevalence and impact of basic needs challenges and CARES Center contact information.  

Make a Donations 

Support the work of the CARES Center and student success by partnering with us in one of the following ways:  

• Dropping off a donation from the Flashes’ Food Pantry Wishlist.  

• Purchasing items from the Flashes’ Food Pantry Amazon Wishlist.  

• Make a one-time or monthly donation to the CARES Basic Needs Student Fund.