Basic Needs Support

Having reliable access to the essential resources you need to support your academic experience, such as food, housing, transportation, and textbooks.

Common Challenges Students Experiences

  • Difficulty accessing consistent meals or groceries
  • Concerns related to secure housing or temporary living situations
  • Transportation challenges that affect class attendance or campus engagement
  • Difficulty affording textbooks, supplies, or required course materials
  • Uncertainty about what resources are available or how to access them

Quick Tips You Can Try Today

  • Identify one immediate need that may be creating stress
  • Review course materials before the term starts to find lower-cost options
  • Plan transportation routes and schedules in advance when possible
  • Reach out to resources as soon as possible if you are having difficulty meeting basic needs

URI Resources That Can Help

Rhody Outpost

Provides food, hygiene items, and essentials for everyday needs.

Find Essential Resources

Office of Financial Aid

Offers guidance on aid, billing, scholarships, and emergency financial support.

Review Aid Options

On-Campus Employment

Connects students with employment opportunities on campus to earn income while balancing school responsibilities.

Search Campus Jobs

Commuter Services

Supports students living off campus by providing resources, guidance, and programs to help navigate campus life and access essential services.

Navigate Commuter Resources

Dean of Students Office & Student Support Advocacy Services

Provides referrals and connects students to campus and community resources to address personal, academic, medical concerns, and basic needs challenges.

Get Student Support

Rhody Basic Needs Hub

Assists students with food access, emergency funding, transportation, or excused absences (such as for bereavement).

Locate Basic Needs

Giving Back Library

Offers a limited selection of books and other course materials that students can utilize free of charge and for up to one semester.

Borrow Course Materials

When To Ask For Extra Help

  • Basic needs concerns are interfering with your academic focus
  • You are unsure how to find or navigate available resources
  • You are experiencing ongoing stress related to housing, food, or transportation
  • You would benefit from a conversation about available options and supports

Who to Contact for One-on-One Support

  • Student Support and Advocacy Services staff
  • Counseling Center staff
  • Life Skills Coach
  • Health Services Staff
  • Enrollment Services Staff
  • Academic Advisor
  • A faculty or staff member you trust