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Basic Needs

Basic Needs at CWU

Our team is committed to serving students with accessible and equitable services through their time at CWU. Whether it is food, housing, clothing, or financial assistance that you are seeking, we are here to guide you. 

Navigate through our virtual basic needs resource hub to find the help you need, when you need it. Here, you will find supportive resources designed to help you as a student thrive during your time at CWU.

Questions? Email basicneeds@cwu.edu for additional information.

Launch Basic Needs Resource Hub

Schedule a meeting!

Looking for assistance with resources available to you? Schedule a meeting with the Basic Needs Resource Coordinator for resource referrals, assistance with SNAP benefits, and more!

Book a time to meet

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who do we serve?

    All currently enrolled CWU students are eligible for assistance, including those attending a CWU Center locations.

    Note: the Basic Needs Resource Coordinator is located at the CWU Ellensburg Campus. Assistance with resources outside of Ellensburg may be limited.  

  • What can we assist with?

    The Basic Needs team can assist you with services related to basic needs through information and referrals. 

    • Resource Referrals
      • Housing Assistance
      • Food Assistance
      • Technology
      • Financial Resources
    • SNAP Assistance - SNAP can be a confusing process! Meet with our team to learn about helpful tips and guideance to get benefits. 
    • Emergency funding guidance

  • What are we not able to provide assistance with?

    The Basic Needs team does not provide direct services related to:

    • Legal assistance 
    • Alcohol or Substance Abuse
    • Suicide Prevention Referrals
      • Visit the Suicide Prevention webpage for assistance. 
    • Medical assistance
      • Visit SHS for assistance.
    • Psychiatric or psychological referrals
  • What is a Basic Needs Resource Coordinator?

    The Basic Needs Resource Coordinator position was created to serve as a single point of contact for resource referral and basic needs assistance. The BNCR provides students with resource navigation, federal program guidance, and more. 

    The Basic Needs Resource Coordinator does not have independent resources available to them, but can connect you with departments and services that can assist you during your time at CWU. 

  • Is there a physical location I can visit?

    The Basic Needs Resource Hub is currently completely virtual. You are able to meet with the Basic Needs Resource Coordinator in person through scheduling a meeting. 

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