Basic Needs

Basic Needs Resources

Western Washington University, in support of its mission, values and goals, strives to provide access to basic needs for its students. The Office of Student Life, working with other key university services, seeks to support students in need and provide or connect them with essential resources, on and off campus. We define basic needs as the resources that address food security, housing stability, and financial sustainability.

Students can visit the Office of Student Life's website for more information about on and off campus basic needs resources in addition to those listed below.  

We strive to reduce financial barriers to learning by providing students with financial assistance to help pay for their educational expenses. Learn more about on and off campus resources that help students in need of food and shelter care. 

The Student Emergency Fund provides assistance to help WWU students alleviate or minimize an unforeseen financial burden, including financial emergencies related to COVID-19. Examples of eligible needs may include housing expenses, childcare, medical or dental expenses, transportation/travel expense, unpaid student account charges and technology needs related to online coursework for winter quarter.

The AS Western Hub of Living Essentials (WHOLE) provides free food, as well as toiletries to Western students experiencing food insecurity and who need hygiene products. WHOLE is located in the Viking Union, room 435, and has the same hours of operation as the Viking Union. WHOLE operates as a self-service pantry.