Student Basic Needs
WSU Tri-Cities Student Basic Needs (SBN) provides support to students by facilitating opportunities to access resources and guidance to securing necessities such as food, housing, transportation, and finances. We do this by developing mindful programs, tools, and partnerships with campus, community, and regional organizations. We are committed to promoting student growth through reducing stigma and improving equitable support for students to break through systematic barriers to fulfill their fundamental needs.
What We Do
- Ensure students have equitable access to resources and guidance to meet their fundamental needs.
- Provide a proactive approach to strengthening student’s self-efficacy.
- Build and maintain partnerships and collaborations to provide students with direct non-academic support.
Contact Us
Maneesha Gammana Liyanage
Basic Needs Navigator
The Basic Needs Navigator is the point of contact for students facing housing, food, and other basic needs insecurities as well as a support to help students address financial barriers.
On-Campus Resources
Food
Food can be found in several spaces on the WSU Tri-Cities campus including the campus food pantry and various shops. Snacks are also available in student spaces like the MOSAIC Center.
The Basic Needs program also helps students apply for food assistance programs such as SNAP and FAP. Contact the Basic Needs Navigator to receive support and ask questions.
Cougar Cupboard
The Cougar Cupboard, sponsored by Lamb Weston, is the free on-campus food pantry. It provides WSU Tri-Cities students and their families with reliable access to food for a healthy life.
Micro Market
The Micro Market in CIC 110 offers pre-packaged food items with a self-checkout kiosk.
The Bookie
The Bookie, our campus bookstore, has a selection of snacks and beverages.
SUB Coffee Shop
The coffee shop in the Student Union Building sells drinks as well as sandwiches (supported by SNAP and FAP food assistance program).
Housing
WSU Tri-Cities Roommate Finder
The WSU Tri-Cities Roommate Finder can help you find a place to rent or advertise a space to rent.
Transportation
Ben Franklin Transit
WSU Tri-Cities students are able to ride on all parts of the Ben Franklin fixed route bus system for free with their Cougar Card. Students can pick up the bus pass sticker to place on their Cougar Card at the campus security office (Floyd 202B).
Facilities
Gender-Inclusive Bathrooms
Gender-inclusive bathrooms can be found in Floyd 213, SUB 108, Collab 121, and Collab 221.
Showers
Showers can be found in Floyd 108, Floyd 122, WSC 122, and WSC 124.
Family
Student Parent Support Group
Join the Student Parent Support Group to learn how other WSU Tri-Cities students manage their lives as parents, students, and workers. Learn about resources and tips, build connections, and support each other.
Lactation Rooms
Lactation rooms are available in East 221A, Collaboration Hall 105B & 205B, and in the Nursing Building.
Financial
Cougar Money Matters
Cougar Money Matters brings together financial resources across all campuses for all Cougs. Calculate your current financial stress score, determine your money personality allowing you to focus on strengths and weaknesses (tips and ideas for improvement), use the free resume evaluation, and take several courses to help you move towards your financial goals.
Emergency Funding
WSU is committed to helping you access the resources you need to thrive and complete your degree. Emergency funding is available to students who need assistance with expenses related to housing, transportation, and health care.
In addition to the WSU system emergency fund, WSU Tri-Cities has a separate fund specifically for Tri-Cities students. If you have submitted before, been denied, or received WSU emergency funds, please resubmit for consideration!
Financial Aid Consultation
Student Financial Services can assist you with understanding your financial aid package, finding information about scholarships, and filling out your annual FAFSA/WASFA.
Stop by Floyd 269 or call 509-372-7228 for help!
Technology
ASWSUTC Technology Access Equity Program for Students
All WSU Tri-Cities students have the ability to borrow a laptop at no cost.
Mental Health
Counseling & Wellness
WSU Tri-Cities Counseling & Wellness embraces a holistic wellness approach to student development by removing psychological, emotional, and behavioral barriers to learning and success in a socially just and equitable environment.
Off-Campus Resources
Please contact the Basic Needs Navigator for guidance on community resources.
Follow us on Instagram and check out our Coug Presence page!
Looking to learn more about us?