Food & Shelter Resources

The Basic Needs Food Distribution Program and Hot Meal Card Program is currently at a pause and hope to provide more information soon. If you are in immediate need, please reach out to CalFresh Outreach Program on campus to apply for benefits or to access a food bank in your area (https://www.lafoodbank.org).

Free Resources in Greater L.A. Area

Basic Needs has compiled a list of resources [PDF] for students in need. The list includes where to get free food, housing assistance, free resources, and help hotlines.

About the Basic Needs Program

In the Fall 2018 semester, CSUDH implemented a campus-wide program initiative that is funded by the Chancellor's office to alleviate any food and housing challenges on campus. The Basic Needs Program offers a multitude of resources on and off campus that will alleviate basic need challenges such as food, housing, transportation, or mental and health challenges.

The CSUDH Basic Needs Program is comprised of the following programs:

Toro Food Pantry

The pantry has non-perishable food items and toiletries available for CSUDH students.

CalFresh Food Program

CalFresh is California's name for the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). CalFresh benefits are funds on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card which can be used to buy food. The CalFresh Outreach Program at CSUDH provides application and verification assistance to students who meet CalFresh eligibility requirements. Assistance can be found during drop-in hours or through an appointment.

Emergency Housing and Well-being Assistance

This program serves students experiencing an unforeseen emergency crisis situation who have exhausted all sources of assistance including financial aid grants and loans. The services include short term emergency housing, faculty and staff student support grants, and more.