CalFresh
CalFresh is a federally funded nutritional assistance program that provides eligible participants with up to $292 each month to spend on groceries. CalFresh makes healthy eating more accessible, allowing students to stretch their food budgets and create more nutritious diets.
Basic Needs Peer Advisors
& Calfresh Advocates
These peer mentors are well-versed with the CalFresh program and are available to walk you through the application process. If you're not eligible for CalFresh, you're still urged to meet with an Advocate as they can help identify alternate food, housing, and financial resources.
Groceries and Food Pantries
Students have several options – both on campus and within the community – to access staple items, fresh produce, and other necessities for a healthy, nutritious diet. Between the A.S. Food Bank, Miramar Pantry, and other locations spread throughout Isla Vista and Santa Barbara, students can locate a food pantry that best fits their needs and schedule.
Prepared Meals
As a college student, you may not always have the time nor resources to prepare meals for yourself. To address this, utilize any of the several places within the local community that offer free meals to students. Alternatively, consider Residential Dining Services as an option for consistent access to prepared food.
Cooking & Nutrition
It's never too late to learn about food preparation, nutrition, grocery shopping, or budgeting. As college students, these basics serve as the foundation for securing a healthy, balanced diet. Through programs like Food, Nutrition, and Basic Skills (FNBS), students can gain such knowledge through hands-on workshops and demonstrations.
Gardening
Did you know there are 14 gardens on campus and in the IV area? Now you do! These gardening programs not only build a healthy connection between the grower and their environment, but also help to address food insecurity within our community. There are many ways to get involved, even if you're starting with no gardening experience at all.
Helpful Resources
Food Resource Map
Find out where campus resources, partners, and programs are located.
Advocate Office Hours
Speak with a peer advisor to learn about food, housing, and financial resources.
Newsletter Signup
Have basic needs resources, events, and news delivered straight to your inbox.
Resource Guides
Keep a list of resources on hand for referral.