Students interviewed this fall were unaware of the full range of support that Basic Needs offers at LBCC, including help with overdue bills, interview clothes and groceries to support students’ ability to focus on their education.
“One service students are surprised by is offering interview clothes,” student employee Luly Melena who works at basic needs said
Melena explained that they will scour everything they have until they find what the student needs.
Students can seek assistance every 12 months when they have past-due essential bills or rent, provided they are able to show proof of need and are enrolled in classes at the time.
First-year student Valarie Landers explained that she and her best friend had different levels of knowledge about Basic Needs services.
Landers and her best friend became familiar with the resources offered during the Summer Voyage tour, although her best friend said she would not have known about the program’s range of support without Landers.
Another first-year student, Ronny Perez, was asked what he knew about the program and answered, “I know nothing about it.”
Marco Mares, who has attended the college since spring 2024, was surprised to learn Basic Needs also assists with overdue essential bills and past-due rent, since he’s been to their Viking Vault many times.
Melena explained that local restaurants connect with the program and provide hot meals for students, typically at the beginning of the semester until they run out.
A recent access barrier surfaced with another support service this semester involving the Viking Voyager shuttle, highlighting the gap between services offered and how well students know how to access them.
Incoming students using the shuttle were unaware that during the first two weeks of the semester, they have a grace period to acquire student IDs and ASB stickers, which provide shuttle access.
Basic Needs is there to alleviate the barriers college students face in their day-to-day lives by providing food, transportation, clothing and financial support.
Melena mentioned that her first suggestion when students are looking for help is to add the Basic Needs shell to their Canvas page so they can stay informed and find support when needed.
Melena encouraged students to ask questions and find out what is available to support them throughout their academic journey.
