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Basic Needs FAQs

At Rutgers University, we understand that meeting basic needs—such as food, housing, and financial security—is essential for student success and well-being. This page provides answers to frequently asked questions about the services and resources available through the Basic Needs Center. Whether you're seeking support or simply want to learn more, we’re here to help you navigate the options and connect with the assistance you need.

How can I start using resources provided by the Basic Needs Center
What are Basic Needs? What does "Basic Needs" means?

Basic Needs are the essential resources required for well-being and academic success. These include access to food, housing, transportation, childcare, healthcare, mental health services, technology, and a sense of belonging and safety. Meeting these needs is foundational for students to thrive in college and beyond. (Hope Center, 2025)

When we say "Basic Needs", we mean the fundamental things a person must have to live with stability and dignity, and to be able to focus on learning and personal growth.

For students, this means:

  • Having enough food to eat every day.
  • Living in safe, stable housing.
  • Being able to get to school (transportation).
  • Having access to healthcare and mental health support.
  • Being able to care for children if they’re parents.
  • Having technology like a laptop or internet to do schoolwork.
  • Feeling safe, included, and supported in their environment.

In short, Basic Needs are what make it possible for students to show up, stay enrolled, and succeed in college. Without these, learning becomes much harder.

Who can use the Basic Needs Center? 

All Rutgers–New Brunswick students have access to the Basic Needs Center and the Rutgers Student Food Pantry. These services are designed to support students facing challenges related to food, housing, clothing, mental health, transportation, and more. Students can visit the food pantry, mobile pantry, or use the Knight’s Pantry Basic Needs Box once per week.

Some additional support services, such as emergency aid funds and gift cards, have eligibility requirements. These programs are typically reserved for currently enrolled students experiencing unexpected, non-recurring financial hardships. Students must first consult with the One-Stop/Financial Aid office to ensure all other aid options have been exhausted before applying.

What to expect to when visiting the Basic Needs Center?

When you arrive, a staff member or student employee will greet you and help guide your visit. If you're seeking support beyond the food pantry, you will need to complete a short intake form. This helps us understand your situation and how urgently you need assistance.

Note: If you're visiting the food pantry for the first time, no appointment is necessary, however, you will need to complete a short intake form.

If a staff member is available, we’ll meet with you right away. If not, we’ll follow up within one business day—often the same day, especially if your need is urgent. If your situation is urgent, we’ll do our best to connect you with a staff member on-site to discuss it immediately.

How Does the Food Pantry Work? How Do I Get Started?

All currently enrolled Rutgers–New Brunswick students can access the food pantry once per week. To get started, create an account on PantrySoft.

You’ll need to schedule an appointment if visiting between 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Monday), 12–4 p.m. (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday), but walk-ins are welcome during open hours from 4–7 p.m. (Wednesday & Friday)

What to Expect:

  • Item Limits: Please take what you need for the week, but be mindful of posted limits. Most items are limited to two per visit; exceptions will be clearly marked.
  • Bag Policy: You’ll receive one reusable bag during your first visit. Please bring that bag—or another of your choice—for future visits. Extra bags will not be provided if you forget yours.

The pantry offers a wide range of items including pantry staples, ready-to-eat snacks, beverages, personal care products, and refrigerated/frozen goods.

What to Expect When Visiting the Food Pantry

If it’s your first time visiting, just let a staff member know when you arrive.

Grab a hand basket and browse the pantry to select the items you need for the week. Be sure to follow posted item limits—most items are limited to two per visit, and any exceptions will be clearly marked.

Once you’ve made your selections, head to the check-out counter where staff will log your visit and assist with bagging. You’ll receive a reusable bag during your first visit—please remember to bring it (or another bag of your choice) for future visits, as extra bags will not be provided.

That’s it! We look forward to seeing you again next week.

What if don't attend the Rutgers New Brunswick campus, can I utilize the Basic Needs Center and/or apply for emergency aid? 

Emergency Aid Eligibility and Resources

We understand that students may face unexpected financial hardships. However, our emergency aid services are currently available only to students enrolled at Rutgers–New Brunswick.

If you are a student at Rutgers–Camden, Rutgers–Newark, or Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS), there are campus-specific resources available to support you:

Rutgers–Camden Students

Emergency Aid: You may apply for assistance through the Chancellor’s Student Emergency Fund, which offers short-term financial support for students experiencing unanticipated hardships such as food or housing insecurity.
Apply for emergency aid at Rutgers–Camden

Food Pantry: Scarlet Raptor’s Nest

Located at 215 N. 3rd St., Room 119, the Scarlet Raptor’s Nest is open to all full-time and part-time students.

  • Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00 pm – 3:45 pm
  • Access: Students must book an appointment via PantrySoft using their Rutgers NetID.
  • Offerings: Perishables, non-perishables, fresh produce, meat, snacks, beverages, toiletries, and hygiene products

Rutgers–Newark Students

Emergency Aid: Students facing emergencies can reach out to the RU-N CARE Team or the Office of Financial Aid for support through the Rutgers–Newark Student Emergency Fund.

Food Pantry: Pantry+ at RU-N
Located in Paul Robeson Campus Center, Room 226, pantry+ is open to all Rutgers–Newark students, staff, and faculty.

  • Hours (Summer): Monday–Wednesday, 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
  • Access: No sign-up needed before your first visit. Bring your Rutgers ID and complete a short form.
  • Services: Free groceries (dairy, grains, produce, hygiene products), emergency food packs, refrigerated lockers for 24/7 access, monthly farmers markets, and SNAP application support

Rutgers–RBHS Students

Emergency Aid: This fund provides modest financial assistance for urgent needs such as housing emergencies, health-related expenses, psychological testing, academic costs, and food insecurity. To apply, visit RBHS Emergency Fund Request Form.

Food Pantry: RBHS does not currently operate a dedicated food pantry. However, students experiencing food insecurity are encouraged to apply for assistance through their Student Emergency Fund. 

If you need additional support or accommodations, you may also contact the RBHS Faculty Affairs Office:

How can you support the Basic Needs Center?

Interested in helping students meet their essential needs? There are several ways to support the Basic Needs Center:

Donate Food, Supplies, or Funds:
You can contribute non-perishable food items, gently used clothing, or make a monetary donation to support students facing food and financial insecurity.

Volunteer Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available for current Rutgers students by registering on the Rcommunity platform.