Food insecurity. A mental health crisis. Struggles with keeping a roof over your head, paying the heating bill or finding a warm coat.
Life can present tough circumstances, and college students aren’t immune. At SUNY Broome, however, students needn’t navigate those turbulent waters alone.
“I don’t think people realize the level of crisis our students may deal with,” reflected Financial Aid Director Laura Hodel, who heads the college’s Financial Wellness Committee.
To help students access the services they need, the college has unveiled two Financial Wellness kiosks – one in the Calice connector and the other outside of Advising in the Student Services Building – that can direct students to food, housing and financial resources such as scholarships. Anyone can use the kiosks to access assistance – or do so on their own, by visiting the designated Wellness Center website.
Another on-campus resource is the Food for Thought pantry, which provides bags of food for students in need. Student Assembly runs the pantry, which is located in the Old Science Building. Click here to learn more.
A regional and even national resource is United Way 211. Students can dial or text 211 for free from anywhere in the country, and connect with local resources for help with food, mental health, utilities, clothing and more. For more information on the local chapter. Visit http://www.helpme211.org/
If you’re a SUNY Broome student who is struggling with life circumstances outside the classroom, please know that help is out there. Don’t be afraid to reach out!
