BASIC NEEDS

Empire State University recognizes that students may face food insecurity, homelessness, financial difficulties, or have limited access to technology during their enrollment. Getting connected with state and federal resources can often be a confusing and overwhelming process. Our staff can help you navigate basic needs issues so that you can focus on your academic journey and the path ahead.

Virtual Food Pantry

The virtual food pantry at SUNY Empire aims to provide a once per term, immediate food supply to students experiencing food insecurity, and to establish connections with area food pantries for ongoing assistance.

To access food assistance, students must complete the Virtual Food Pantry Application

If you are approved, a staff member will reach out to you with further instructions.

 

SNAP

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issues electronic benefits that can be used like cash to purchase food. SNAP helps low-income working people, senior citizens, the disabled and others feed their families. New York City residents must apply through Access HRA.

Need help apply or recertifying for SNAP benefits? Email basicneeds@sunyempire.edu and request a meeting with our SNAP Coordinator.

SUNY Empire recognizes that our students have temporary setbacks or face emergencies that can halt their educational goals. Students may apply for a one-time emergency grant if they meet the following criteria:

  • Currently enrolled in at least one credit and matriculated in a SUNY Empire degree program.
  • Demonstrate immediate financial need (supplemental material proving need recommended)
  • Have not exhausted available financial aid grants
  • Have not received a previous grant from the emergency student grant fund

Grants cannot exceed $250 per student and must be used for one or more of the following categories:

  • Urgent need for food or groceries
  • Critical past due partial rent/mortgage payments
  • Emergency housing or hotel
  • Childcare
  • Mental health provider co-pay or sliding scale fee for self
  • Needs related to personal safety (domestic violence or similar)
  • Transportation (public transportation, fuel, or car repair)
  • Critical past due utility payments (electrical, natural gas, or internet)
  • Medications and other costs related to emergent medical care

Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed, and a decision will be made within five business days. Due to limited funds, not all applications will receive funding. These grants do not have to be repaid and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all funds are exhausted.

We currently have two open basic needs grants:

Any additional questions can be sent to basicneeds@sunyempire.edu.

Single Stop and SUNY Empire have partnered to provide our students with immediate access to basic needs resources. Once on the Single Stop webpage, press  "Let’s Get Started!" to determine what federal, state, and local benefits you may qualify for.

Looking for local resources that may help with housing, food, immigration, transportation, and more? Check out the Single Stop Resource Tool!

The SUNY system provides a spectrum of personal financial literacy tools including budgeting, avoiding identity theft and responsible credit card use. You can use Smart Track Financial Wellness and Literacy Tools including CashCourse which offers a self-paced course to learn more about your earnings, spending, and borrowing.

Questions?

If you have questions related to basic needs, please contact basicneeds@sunyempire.edu.

If you are experiencing academic concerns as a result of a basic needs issue, please visit our Student Services Contact page.

Student Services staff can support you with:

  • Individualized coaching and engagement opportunities
  • Appeals, grievances, and reinstatements
  • Tutoring, academic workshops, skills development
  • Accessibility and accommodations

Questions?

We’re here to help.

Empire State University's 1Stop Student Services is a partner in your successful student experience. Visit www.sunyempire.edu/1stop or contact 1stop@sunyempire.edu.

800-847-3000, ext. 2285