Affordability concerns have left many college students struggling to cover not only tuition but also rising food prices, housing costs and other everyday expenses. As those financial pressures grow, colleges are rethinking what student support looks like—and what role they should play in addressing students’ basic needs.
At Stony Brook University, that shift has meant transforming its traditional campus food pantry, Seawolves Pantry, into a broader hub for basic needs support. Originally opened in 2013, the pantry extended its hours and services in 2020 as student demand increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, the pantry stocks culturally significant foods, multilingual educational materials and an expanded selection of hygiene products, including skincare and dental care items. The new inventory reflects a reality many students know well: Groceries are only one part of the rising cost of living. The pantry is designed to address a range of basic needs that university leaders said can influence students’ ability to stay focused on their education.
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