Welcome!
At UCSB, we know getting connected to the right resources isn't always easy. To help out, the Calfresh Advocates and Basic Needs Peer Advisors are ready to assist you with all aspects of your basic needs, including (but not limited to) food, finances, and housing. Got a question? Just ask an Advocate!
Visit us at the Food Security and Basic Needs Advising Center at the UCen.
We welcome all UCSB students, regardless of immigration status, gender, or sexual orientation.
All UCSB students are welcome.
Sincerely,
The Basic Needs Advocate Team
In Person Assistance - Drop in Advising
Food Security and Basic Needs Advising Center
2024 Spring Hours
Come meet with an advocate at our office.
Monday: 8am - 5pm
Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
Wednesday: 8am - 5pm
Thursday: 8am - 5pm
Friday: 9am - 5pm
Virtual appointments are available!
Click Images Below For Interactive Map
El Centro Basic Needs Center
2024 Spring Hours
We have a second office at El Centro, Room 115.
Monday: 1pm - 5pm
Tuesday: 1pm - 5pm
Wednesday: 1pm - 5pm
Thursday: 1pm - 5pm
Friday: CLOSED
Virtual appointments are available!
Click Image Below For Interactive Map
Virtual Assistance - Zoom Appointments
Learn How to Make a Virtual Appointment on Shoreline
Please Allow a Few Minutes for the Appointment Page to Load.
If you experience any issues when booking an appointment,
please contact us at basicneeds.sa.ucsb.edu for additional assistance.
CalFresh Application
60 min. timeslot
(most applications average 45-60min.)
Recommended for:
receiving guidance on applying for CalFresh and starting starting application
Basic Needs Advising
45 min. timeslot
Recommended for:
finding basic needs resources might be the best fit for your needs and advice on how to access those resources.
SAR-7 (6 Month Renewal)
30 min. timeslot
Recommended for:
Questions about your semi-annual report (SAR-7) for your CalFresh benefits.
Contact Us
Please send us a chat in the lower right hand corner of this website and an advocate will assist you within minutes or leave us a message while we are offline - a calfresh advocate will email you back in 1-2 days.
When Virtual Chat Not Live
We will follow up with an email within 1-2 business days or you can call or email us contact information.
Phone: 1-805-893-2786 | Email: basicneeds.sa.ucsb.edu
Live Virtual Chat
Monday: 8am-5pm
Tuesday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 8am-5pm
Thursday: 8am-5pm
Friday: 9am-5pm