We know many of our students face challenges that include food insecurity and homelessness. SCC has created the Panther Cares Program to provide one central location for students in need, and the Panther Cares Fund helps to support these basic needs services.
Students can visit the Panther Cares pantry on a weekly basis and select up to 10 items (fresh, canned, and/or boxed foods, including pantry staples and bread) to feed themselves and their families.
In addition, Pop Up Produce is a twice-monthly food distribution done in partnership with the Sacramento Food Bank. It is open to all SCC students and is held at the Panther Cares Center. Students are eligible to receive a fresh produce box with items like lettuce, carrots, potatoes, apples, and other seasonal fruits and vegetables. Some distributions include dry goods boxes and gift cards.
Los Rios Community College District has a partnership with Extended Stay America which allows us to provide up to two weeks of emergency stays for homeless students. This program was originally funded by donors to the Covid-19 Relief Fund, but the Panther Cares fund will be funding emergency stays for SCC students going forward. The Panther Cares funds also provide a limited number of grocery gift cards to support the students who are a part of the Emergency Hotel Stays program so they can purchase food.
The Los Rios Colleges Foundation Student Emergency Fund provides immediate financial assistance (usually within 24 hours) to students involved in catastrophic or unexpected emergency situations. Student may receive emergency grants of up to $500. Awards are contingent upon the availability of limited funds, provided through generous donations.
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The American Association of Community Colleges: Building a Nation of Learners by Advancing America’s Community Colleges
Learn more: https://www.aacc.nche.edu
