Basic Needs Center Supports Students Ahead of the Holidays

Publish Date: Nov. 24, 2025

This November, the Basic Needs Center at Crafton Hills College stepped up in a big way to ensure students had the support they needed heading into the holiday season.

In the days leading up to fall break, the center hosted its annual turkey distribution, providing holiday food bags complete with a turkey, sides and dessert. Beginning at 9 a.m. Nov. 18, students were able to reserve a bag on a first-come, first-served basis. These holiday bags replaced the weekly Grab & Go Groceries distribution, allowing the COACH Cupboard to offer something extra special for the season.

The Basic Needs Center helps students with CalFresh applications, food and housing insecurity, mental health referrals, transportation assistance and connections to local community services. Its work ensures students’ foundational needs are met so they can focus on succeeding academically and personally.

Basic Needs Coordinator Erika Sherman shared what inspires her about this work:

“I am always impressed by the resilience of our students and their ability to keep striving toward their goals, even when faced by some pretty challenging circumstances. Our students’ ability to thrive goes beyond access to resources. It’s the collective care and support of our campus and community that enables their college journey at Crafton to be a success. It’s inspiring to witness their strength and determination, and I’m super proud to have served them and been a part of their journey here at CHC.”

Learn more: Basic Needs Center