Basic Needs provides comprehensive basic needs resources, advocacy, and support with the vision that all students have their essential needs met in order to learn, lead, and serve at the University of Tennessee and beyond.
College students’ basic needs encompass essentials crucial for their personal well-being and academic success. These include secure housing, reliable food access, healthcare services, transportation options, financial resources, academic support, and personal safety (Maslow, 1943; The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, n.d.). Meeting these needs is paramount in creating a supportive environment that enables students to focus on their studies, personal growth, and overall success at the university.
Consultations
Our team provides one-on-one consultations with students as they navigate basic needs insecurity challenges. During these consultations, students work closely with a member of our team to access and utilize both campus and community resources. Our goal is to set up each student for long-term basic needs security by empowering them with the necessary support and tools to thrive.
Consultations can be requested directly from a student or made through referral.
Big Orange Meal Share Scholarship
The Big Orange Meal Share Scholarship is for students who are experiencing financial barriers to purchasing a campus meal plan. There are a limited number of scholarships available, and you must apply to be considered. If you are a recipient of this scholarship, it will cover both Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semester.
Volunteer with Us
Our volunteers help keep our doors open! If you are interested in volunteering at Basic Needs, please visit the Jones Center for Leadership and Service’s ‘Sign Up to Serve’ website. All individual volunteer opportunities with us are made available through the ServeUTK platform. Please note that opportunities fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up in advance.
For questions regarding volunteering with us, please contact us via email at basicneeds@utk.edu.