UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State is joining a national effort to better understand and address students’ basic needs through a new survey conducted in partnership with the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs at Temple University.
The Hope Center’s research has shown that 59% of college students nationwide face at least one form of basic-needs insecurity related to food or housing, both key factors that can affect academic success and overall well-being. The Basic Needs Survey will give Penn State a clearer picture of how these issues impact students across its campuses and help inform strategies to strengthen support programs.
“A student’s ability to learn and thrive depends on having their basic needs met,” said Leanne Lenz, senior associate director of Student Care and Advocacy at Penn State. “This survey will help us better understand the realities our students face and help us maintain and develop programs and policies that respond directly to their needs.”
A random sample of undergraduate and graduate students will receive an email invitation to complete the Basic Needs Survey on Oct. 21. Participation is voluntary and confidential. Questions will address access to food, housing, transportation, technology, mental health support and other essentials.
The results will help Penn State evaluate and enhance current services — including food pantries, housing assistance, emergency grants and transit support — and identify new ways to help reduce barriers to student success. A similar survey in 2021 provided student data that helped inform key areas of need, allowing Penn State to expand the Basic Needs Collaborative Council, create an emergency dining dollars program and formalize key local partnerships with basic-needs providers. It also provided data that resulted in the University being awarded Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus Grants in 2023 and 2024.
“This effort reflects our commitment to help every student have the foundation they need to succeed academically and personally,” Lenz said. “By taking part, students are helping us build a stronger, more caring Penn State. Our focus remains on providing our community with the resources they need, and this survey is invaluable in informing how we can best achieve that goal.”
Students selected to participate are encouraged to check their email and take a few minutes to complete the survey when it becomes available on Oct. 21.
For more information about the Hope Center for Student Basic Needs, visit hope.temple.edu. Students in need of support or resources can visit Penn State’s Student Care and Advocacy website.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.