Benefits Navigation Program Information for Students

To apply for Basic Food assistance, visit the Department of Social and Health Services' Basic Food website.

See what funds you may be eligible for at Start Next Quarter. If your college is not on the list, contact the college directly.

If you have questions about financial aid, call the financial aid office at the college of your choice.

You can also contact Student Financial Assistance at the Washington Student Achievement Council at finaid@wsac.wa.gov or 888-535-0747.

Benefits Navigation Program Information for College Staff

Program Description

Are you experiencing food, housing, or any other type of basic needs insecurity? If you are planning to attend a Washington State community or technical college, the Benefits Navigator at your college can help you connect with basic needs resources, such as food, housing supports, and childcare.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be planning to begin or continue school at one of Washington’s community or technical colleges, and need help with any basic needs. Basic needs include food, water, shelter, clothing, physical health, mental health, childcare, or similar needs that you as a student at an institution of higher education may face difficulty with, and that hurt your ability to begin or continue school. 

Services

Services vary depending on the college you attend. Your college’s Benefits Navigator may be able to help you access the following resources and more:

Get Started

Contact your college’s Benefits Navigator if you are considering attending one of Washington’s community or technical colleges and need assistance with any basic needs. Your college's Benefits Navigators can help you find and apply for resources to help you cover the basics.