Basic Needs Center Impact

The Basic Needs Center provides support to students experiencing food and housing insecurity. Through volunteerism, donations and other resources we are able to support our Buffs. 

Basic Needs Survey

The 2024 Basic Needs Survey builds on previous efforts undertaken by the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Colorado Boulder to build data-informed solutions and ensure all students have their basic needs met. 

Read the Report   

Our Impact

September 2022-March 2025

Food Assistance

 

1,310,974 pounds

of food distributed through the Buff Pantry and mobile food pantries

 

1,092,478 meals

provided to the CU Boulder community through the Buff Pantry and mobile food pantries

 

28,610 on-campus meals

provided to students through Swipe It Forward and emergency meal cards

 

$5,125,896 million

saved in grocery store costs

According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, on average, a trip to the grocery store in Colorado costs $85.50.

 

Emergency Housing Assistance

Supported 451 students in retaining housing

Reasons Students Seek Emergency Housing

  • Safety concerns: 23%
  • Experiencing houselessness: 50%
  • Facing or experiencing eviction: 2%
  • Uninhabitable living conditions: 13%
  • Inability to afford rent: 2%
  • Gap between housing: 9%

 

3,594 hours

contributed by volunteers

 

 1,922 students reached

through educational programs on nutrition, housing, finance and wellness