Basic Needs Resources
Basic needs insecurity among community college students has been statistically shown to have negative impacts on class success and degree completion. Food insecurity and housing insecurity results in more focus and energy being directed to meeting basic needs and thus less time and energy to focus on academics. Students who are facing basic needs insecurity are more likely to work longer hours, work multiple jobs, be employed at or below minimum wage, be at an increased risk for unemployment, and ultimately be at an increased risk of dropping out of college.
Basic Needs Syllabi Language
Faculty can help by placing a notice on their syllabi or by adding a module on their canvas page providing student with the information on the resources available at the college.
Students who do not have access to sufficient food on a daily basis and/or are couch
surfing, or do not have a stable place to sleep, please know that San Diego Mesa College
is here to support you. We have several services including: access to food, toiletries
and clothing at The Stand located in k-106; a free Farmer’s Market on the first Monday
and third Thursday of every month; access to showers in the gym. Additional resources
are available by contacting The Stand Basic Needs Resource Center at 619-388-5726,
or filling out the Basic Needs Application online at www.sdmesa.edu/thestand. In addition, if you feel comfortable, please know I am here to assist you in securing
resources. (Author C. Perkins)
Any student who faces challenges securing their food or housing and believes this may affect their performance in the course is urged to contact The Stand Basic Needs Resource Center located in k 106 for support. You can also access the Basic Needs Application online www.sdmesa.edu/thestand .Furthermore, please notify the professor if you are comfortable in doing so. This will enable them to provide any resources that they may possess. (paraphrased - Sara Goldrick-Rab)
Basic Needs Reports
- Summary of survey responses on "The Impact of COVID-19" on the Employees of the San Diego Community College District and the Students of San Diego Mesa College (Spring/Summer 2020)
- Statewide COVID-19 Impact Surveys of Students and Employees: Spring 2020 Results
- COVID-19 Student Needs Survey Results (April 2020)
- CCC Basic Needs Initiative
- College and University Basic Needs Insecurity: A National #RealCollege Survey Report (April 2019)
- California Community Colleges #RealCollege Survey (March 2019)
- Fall 2022 Student Survey
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