Basic needs insecurity has the potential to undermine investments in higher education and hinder upward social and economic mobility. The likelihood of a student re-enrolling in college after dropping out is low, with only 30% returning to finish a degree. Uncertainty around basic needs of food, housing, child care, and transportation should NOT be the determining factor for students pursuing an education and upward mobility. Greenville Tech Foundation aims to support students through these challenges to ensure each student has the opportunity to pursue an education AND have their basic needs met.
STAR Center
Student Assistance and Resources
Addressing Basic Needs Insecurity among Greenville Technical College Students
By the Numbers
STAR Center Impact
1
students served by Caring Corner Food Panty in last year
1%
of Greenville Technical College students experienced a basic needs insecurity within the past 30 days
$1
bags of groceries were distributed to student household through 1,327 student visits
When sudden circumstances create emergency needs, the STAR Center provides financial assistance so students can stay on track academically. Students can receive financial assistance, groceries, and other resources to overcome unforeseen challenges.
What seems simple to most – fixing a flat tire, unforeseen medical bills, or finding your next meal – can be a barrier to our students and will prevent them from graduating.
Student Emergency Needs funds can help with:
- Past due bills
- Rental/housing assistance
- Medical bills
- Transportation issues
- Books and class supplies
Caring Corner food pantry provides:
- Food
- Toiletries
- Other essential needs items
A college education is one of the few routes to upward economic mobility and breaking the cycle of poverty; and the basic needs of adequate food and housing, are critical components of collegiate success. If a student has not eaten or slept enough the night before a class or an exam, they can have difficulty mastering the material or performing well. Greenville Technical College administered the #RealCollege survey, a nationwide annual assessment of basic needs insecurity among college students developed by the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice. The survey found 56% of Greenville Technical College students experienced at least one type of basic needs insecurity (food insecurity, housing insecurity, and/or homelessness) in the past year.
How You Can Help
Student Stories
Being a single mother in college is hard enough. When someone broke into my car and stole my wallet, clinic bag, and iPad, I was devastated. I couldn’t afford to replace anything and thought I might have to drop out.
Thankfully, the STAR Center and emergency funding stepped in. They helped me replace my iPad, pencil, and a $1,000 instrument kit. Their support kept me on track in the dental hygiene program and allowed me to care for my son. I’m forever grateful to the STAR program and Greenville Tech Foundation.”
– Heather.
When I first visited the STAR Center, I was working full-time, attending school full-time, and on sick leave. I needed help with rent and utilities, and the Greenville Tech Foundation stepped in through the STAR Center.
They connected me to resources I didn’t even know existed and helped cover critical bills during a tough time. Their support was a lifeline, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done for me.”
– Lisette.
Shaquella, a single mother of two, found advocates with the STAR Center when she faced some unexpected financial challenges. “It took a relief off of my shoulders. They paid my rent – I didn’t have to stress about my family’s needs,” said Hawthorne. “I thought I was in it by myself, but at the end of the day, I found people to help get me through it.” Since graduating with her Nursing degree, Hawthorne started working on a transitional unit at Prisma Health and plans to transfer to a critical care/ICU unit in the future.
“My degree means stability and a career I can always depend on. Nurses are needed desperately, and I will be able to provide for my children. I am so thankful for this support. One day, I want to be a donor. I want to help people like me, who are struggling through school.”
– Shaquella.