Resources Toolkit

Resources for Basic Needs and Wellness situations to include, food, housing, finances, mental health, and sleep.

"Immediate" Resources are ones where you can refer a student to right away where they can be helped right away.
"Beyond" Resources are ones that can be contacted right away, but have a waiting time associated with receiving the resource.

Immediate Food Resources

The A.S. Food Pantry provides nutritious food and referrals to other food services for SDSU students experiencing food insecurity. Vegan options are available.

Access: For further information, and to make a reservation visit the A.S. Food Pantry Website

Estimated wait time: Available three days per week during the semester with varying hours over summer and breaks.

Referral tip: Make sure you know your Red ID number and bring a reusable bag!

ECRT aims to bridge the gap in resources for students experiencing immediate food, housing, or unforeseen financial crises that impacts student success. Using a holistic approach to well-being, ECRT supports students through crisis by leveraging a campus-wide collaboration that utilizes on and off-campus partnerships and provides direct referrals based on each student’s unique circumstances. ECRT empowers students to identify and access long term, sustainable solutions in an effort to successfully graduate from SDSU.

Access:   Request ECRT assistance here.

Estimated wait time: 72 hours (students in crisis will be reached out to as soon as possible).

Referral tips:

  • Complete what you can and provide as much information as you feel comfortable with. The information will be used for coordinators to help connect you with resources in a timely manner.
  • ECRT will first reach out via email, using the SDSU email that you provide on the intake form. Be sure to keep an eye on your SDSU email within the first 72 that you submit your request for follow up information from ECRT Coordinators.
  • Students can connect with ECRT Coordinators virtually or in-person.

A comprehensive list of food resources in San Diego county.

Access: Food Resource Guide

Estimated wait time: n/a

Beyond Food Resources

CalFresh provides monthly food benefits to assist low-income households in purchasing food. Receive support and assistance for CalFresh and Medi-Cal from an Enrollment Specialist from the County of San Diego.

Access: Stop by the Basic Needs Center (Calpulli Center, Suite 3200) to meet in-person with a representative. Open weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 am-3 p.m. (except holidays - 25-26 SDSU Holiday calendar). 

Estimated wait time: Wait time varies by time/day.

Referral tip:

  • First come, first served. Arrive early to have a shorter wait time.
  • Check out our Instagram for changes in times/dates.

Financial Aid provides financial information and counseling to students. They can help students navigate the loans they currently have, along with understanding eligibility for more loans. For more information visit the Financial Aid website.

Access: To check your Financial Aid and Scholarship Eligibility, visit my.SDSU.
               You can also access their Virtual Help Desk, available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Estimated wait time: Wait times on the Virtual help desk can vary depending. Email contact can typically be made within 3-4 days.

Referral tips:

  • If you filed for the 25-26 school year you can check your my.SDSU account. View my.SDSU Resources/Training Guides here.
  • If you email Financial Aid, be sure to include your Name and Red ID in your email. 

UBO provides information and deadlines on financial aid disbursement, tuition, fees, and loans.

Students can use this resource to get more information on SDSU costs and loan/grant distribution.

UBO also offers short term loans of up to $1,000 to help students with short term financial needs.

Access: Email [email protected] or to use LiveChat, click the speech bubbles in the bottom right corner of UBO homepage.
The Virtual Front Desk will be available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Students will be able to get immediate assistance with not Financial Aid & Scholarship questions and University Bursar's Office questions that relate to student accounts/billing. You can access the UBO virtual front desk through their website.


Apply for a short term loan though UBO online here.

Estimated wait time: Chat bot can be accessed immediately, emails may take 3-4 days to respond. Status updates on the Short Term Loans will be available within 2 working days after you submit the application.

Referral tip: In your email or LiveChat, include your name, Red ID and what your question is.

Immediate Housing Resources

ECRT aims to bridge the gap in resources for students experiencing immediate food, housing, or unforeseen financial crises that impacts student success. Using a holistic approach to well-being, ECRT supports students through crisis by leveraging a campus-wide collaboration that utilizes on and off-campus partnerships and provides direct referrals based on each student’s unique circumstances. ECRT empowers students to identify and access long term, sustainable solutions in an effort to successfully graduate from SDSU.
 

Access: Request ECRT assistance here
Estimated wait time: 72 hours (students in crisis will be reached out to as soon as possible).
Referral tips:

  • Complete what you can and provide as much information as you feel comfortable with. The information will be used for coordinators to help connect you with resources in a timely manner.
  • ECRT will first reach out via email, using the SDSU email that you provide on the intake form. Be sure to keep an eye on your SDSU email within the first 72 that you submit your request for follow up information from ECRT Coordinators.
  • Students can connect with the ECRT Housing Stability Coordinator virtually or in-person.

Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

211 is a free nonprofit organization that connects people with community, health and disaster services. Puts the 6,000 social services offered in SD county. 211 can help you with utility bills, finding shelter, food assistance, disaster assistance, etc.

Access: Dial 2-1-1 on a telephone to speak with someone who will point you towards the resources you need or go to their website here: Home - 211 San Diego
Estimated wait time: No wait time, available 24/7.
Referral Tips: 211 is a massive database of resources, so make sure you’re ready to discuss all the resources available to you in your community. Make sure to take notes!
Changes due to COVID-19: Now 211 offers testing and vaccination site resources for those who are unvaccinated and/or in need. Another addition to the 211 resource list are the COVID-related housing resources to help you pay past due rent and utilities. They can help you understand your financial options to help you stay in your home.

Beyond Housing Resources

FA&S provides financial information and counseling to students. They can help students navigate the loans they currently have, along with understanding eligibility for more loans.

Access: To check your Financial Aid and Scholarship Eligibility, visit AidLink
The Virtual Help Desk will be available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Students will be able to get immediate assistance with not only Financial Aid & Scholarship questions but also University Bursar's Office questions that relate to student accounts/billing. You can access the virtual student financial center through the FA&S website.
Estimated wait time: Wait time can vary depending on situation and method. Email contact can typically be made within 3-4 days, Aidlink can be accessed immediately any time.
Referral tip: Check your AidLink account before emailing FA&S Be sure to include your Name and Red ID in your email. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will communicate with you via AidLink and email. Be sure to check both, regularly.
Changes due to COVID-19: All communication is via email or the Virtual Help Desk. It may take 3 - 4 business days to receive an email response. FA&S lists FAQ related to COVID-19 here.

UBO provides information and deadlines on financial aid disbursement, tuition, fees, and loans.
Students can use this resource to get more information on SDSU costs and loan/grant distribution.
UBO also offers short term loans of up to $1,000 to help students with short term financial needs.

Access: Email [email protected] or to use LiveChat, click the speech bubbles in the bottom right corner of the University Bursar's Office.
The Virtual Front Desk will be available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Students will be able to get immediate assistance with not Financial Aid & Scholarship questions and University Bursar's Office questions that relate to student accounts/billing. You can access the UBO virtual front desk through their website.
Apply for a short term loan though UBO online here.
Estimated wait time: Chat bot can be accessed immediately, emails may take 3-4 days to respond. Status updates on the Short Term Loans will be available within 2 working days after you submit the application.
Referral tip: In your email or LiveChat, include your name, Red ID and what your question is.
Changes due to COVID-19: Customer support is only handled online via Live Chat, Virtual Help Desk, or via email.

Immediate Financial Resources

ECRT aims to bridge the gap in resources for students experiencing immediate food, housing, or unforeseen financial crises that impacts student success. Using a holistic approach to well-being, ECRT supports students through crisis by leveraging a campus-wide collaboration that utilizes on and off-campus partnerships and provides direct referrals based on each student’s unique circumstances. ECRT empowers students to identify and access long term, sustainable solutions in an effort to successfully graduate from SDSU.

Access: Request ECRT assistance here
Estimated wait time: 72 hours (students in crisis will be reached out to as soon as possible).
Referral tip: Complete what you can and provide as much information as you feel comfortable with. The information will be used for coordinators to help connect you with resources in a timely manner. ECRT will first reach out via email, using the SDSU email that you provide on the intake form. Be sure to keep an eye on your SDSU email within the first 72 that you submit your request for follow up information from ECRT Coordinators
Changes due to COVID-19: ECRT is currently operating completely virtually. All communication will be done via email, zoom, or phone call.

Beyond Financial Resources

FA&S provides financial information and counseling to students. They can help students navigate the loans they currently have, along with understanding eligibility for more loans.

Access: To check your Financial Aid and Scholarship Eligibility, visit AidLink
The Virtual Help Desk will be available Monday-Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm. Students will be able to get immediate assistance with not only Financial Aid & Scholarship questions but also University Bursar's Office questions that relate to student accounts/billing. You can access the virtual student financial center through the FA&S website.
Estimated wait time: Wait time can vary depending on situation and method. Email contact can typically be made within 3-4 days, Aidlink can be accessed immediately any time.
Referral tip: Check your AidLink account before emailing FA&S Be sure to include your Name and Red ID in your email. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will communicate with you via AidLink and email. Be sure to check both, regularly.
Changes due to COVID-19: All communication is via email or the Virtual Help Desk. It may take 3 - 4 business days to receive an email response.
FA&S lists FAQs related to COVID-19 here.

UBO provides information and deadlines on financial aid disbursement, tuition, fees, and loans. Students can use this resource to get more information on SDSU costs and loan/grant distribution.
UBO also offers short term loans of up to $1,000 to help students with short term financial needs.

Access: Email [email protected] or to use LiveChat, click the speech bubbles in the bottom right corner of UBO homepage.
The Virtual Front Desk will be available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Students will be able to get immediate assistance with not Financial Aid & Scholarship questions and University Bursar's Office questions that relate to student accounts/billing. You can access the UBO virtual front desk through their website.
Apply for a short term loan though UBO online here.
Estimated wait time: Chat bot can be accessed immediately, emails may take 3-4 days to respond. Status updates on the Short Term Loans will be available within 2 working days after you submit the application.
Referral tip: In your email or LiveChat, include your name, Red ID and what your question is.
Changes due to COVID-19: Customer support is only handled online via Live Chat or via email.

Immediate Mental Health Resources

Chat with a licensed clinician about mental health topics including suicide prevention, crisis intervention, community resources, mental health referrals, and alcohol and drug support services.

Access: The chat feature operates Mon.-Fri. from 4-10 p.m. PST. Click here to launch a live chat session.
Estimated wait time: No wait time during available hours.
Referral tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: None listed.

Talk with a licensed clinician about mental health topics including suicide prevention, crisis intervention, community resources, mental health referrals, and alcohol and drug support services.

Access:

  • Phone: (888) 724-7240
  • Text: 711

Estimated wait time: No wait time.
Referral tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: None listed.

Beyond Mental Health Resources

C&PS offers a range of services to improve the mental health and well-being of students.

Access: Call the C&PS office at 619-594-5220 between the hours of 8-4:30 p.m. and ask for a 10-15 minute phone consultation with a C&PS therapist. After hearing your concerns, the therapist will identify on and off campus counseling options to best help you. You can also email [email protected] with any questions, but calling will get you results more quickly.
Estimated wait time: Same-day consultations
Referral tip:

  • When you call, say “I’d like a consultation with a therapist”
  • You can also call to consult with a therapist about how to best support a student you are concerned about.

Changes due to COVID-19: Counseling services are offered in-person and virtually.

Talk It Out is a drop-in service that provides students with easy access to informal and confidential consultation with our C&PS counselors.

Access: Talk It Out is hosted by four different campus centers:

  1. Counseling and Psychological Services: Tuesdays at 1:30-3:20 p.m. PST via Zoom
  2. Pride Center: Tuesdays 1-2:50 p.m. PST via Zoom
  3. Center for Intercultural Relations: Wednesdays 9-10:50 a.m. PST via Zoom
  4. International Student Center: Wednesdays 2-3:50 p.m. PST via Zoom

Estimated wait time: Available two days per week, at four different sessions.
Referral tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID 19: Talk It Out is only offered virtually.

Assists students seek healthcare services and help them navigate their health insurance or attain health insurance.

Access: Schedule an appointment to learn about your healthcare or how to get healthcare here. Select “healthcare” as the topic you want to discuss.
Estimated wait time: Typically about one business day.
Referral tip: In the form to request an appointment, indicate what your current status of healthcare coverage is, and what you want to get out of your appointment.
Changes due to COVID-19: Meetings are held virtually.

Immediate Sleep Resources

C&PS website lists strategies to help students improve their sleep.

Access: Browse the C&PS sleep strategies here.
Estimated wait time: N/A
Referral tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

This is a resource page for student parents to learn about SDSU and SD area resources for parents and their children.

Access: Many stressors can contribute to sleep deprivation such as economic crisis, housing insecurity, food insecurity, tuition costs, discrimination, and childcare resources. Browse the Pregnant and Parenting Students page to find resources readily available to increase your academic and personal success.
Estimated wait time: N/A
Referral tip: Use the campus partner emails listed on the page to get help with specific questions.
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

Beyond Sleep Resources

A representative from campus Well-being and Health Promotion (W&HP) can deliver a presentation about healthy sleep strategies to student groups, classes or organizations.

Access: Schedule a presentation here, select “Sleep Strategies” for the type of presentation you want to have.
Estimated wait time: Minimum of two weeks to schedule presentation.
Referral tip: A W&HP representative will reach out to you via email to confirm your presentation date. We will create a secure Zoom meeting link for the presentation.
Changes due to COVID-19: Presentations are still available and held virtually via zoom.

The ASPIRE program is one-on-one counseling that may help students experiencing sleep deprivation because of drinking or substance use. The program can help students look at where they are in life currently versus where they want to be and make adjustments.

Access: Call Counseling & Psychological Services at (619) 594-5220 or email them at [email protected]
Estimated wait time: Same-day consultations are available.
Referral Tip: When calling, say that you are interested in the ASPIRE program.
Changes due to COVID-19: Meetings are held virtually.

Immediate Physical Health Resources

Aztec Recreation provides high quality programs, services and facilities that inspire active, healthy living and enhance the SDSU experience.

Access: Choose to be a part of intramural sports, join the gym, become an Aquaplex member, or go on an Aztec Adventures outing, and more! Visit the Aztec Recreation website to learn about all that they offer.
Estimated wait time: Sign up for immediate access to the gym, online virtual workouts, join an intramural team, or sign up for an Aztec Adventures outing. For other activities wait times will vary.
Referral Tip: When visiting the website, you can find a comment and question form at the bottom through the Contact link. Once received, the question or comment will be directed to the appropriate person.
Changes due to COVID 19: Weights, cardio equipment, fitness classes, lap swim and more are available with ARC Outdoors! Reservations are required for all visits and facial coverings are required at all times. Please see the ARC Outdoors website for more information.
There are also Virtual Workout Resources available, including the On-demand workouts via their YouTube channel.

A website full of methods and tips for staying physically and mentally healthy. Includes at home workouts, nutrition advice, answers to questions about stress etc.

Access: Use the Campus Well website to access these resources
Estimated wait time: N/A
Referral Tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: Please be mindful of the fact that you may not be able to follow some of the recommendations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please defer to your local public health and social distancing guidelines until the pandemic has ended.

Beyond Physical Health Resources

30-60 minute appointments to learn nutrition basics and/or Intuitive Eating. Gain a better understanding of how you can complement your fitness routine with eating healthy. Learn how to maintain balance in your life.

Access: Click here to schedule a one-on-one education session with the Registered Dietitian.
Estimated wait time: Approximately 2 working days to be contacted to schedule an appointment
Referral Tip: When you sign up for the session, include the following information in the “notes or other information” section (on the third page of the survey):

  1. When was the last time you saw a medical provider (MD, RN, etc.)?
  2. Do you have a history of medical issues? (If yes, please explain)
  3. Are you satisfied with your eating patterns? (If no, why?)
  4. Were you referred, if yes, by whom?
  5. Please indicate what topics you want to discuss.

Changes due to COVID-19: Sessions may take place in-person or virtually.

SHS provides services including primary health, sexual health, laboratory testing, pharmacy, physical exam, radiology, specialty care, injections, immunizations, COVID-19 testing, flu shots, and walk in services.

Access: Schedule all services via phone call or online first. Call 619-594-4325 or send a secure message through HealtheConnect to schedule an appointment.
Estimated wait time: Anywhere from 1-5 business days depending on the services needed.
Referral Tip: Encourage students to make an appointment earlier rather than later to get something that works well with their schedule.
Changes due to COVID-19: Walk in services have been suspended.

Immediate Safety Resources

The University Police Department (UPD) provides policing services to San Diego State University.

Access: Call 911 if in an emergency. If non-emergency, call 619-594-1991 to speak to a police dispatcher. Visit the University police website for more information.
Estimated wait time: None. Response is immediate
Referral Tip: SDSU UPD offers a daily free shuttle ride Mon.-Fri. between 6-10 p.m.
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

Title IX protects students, educators and school employees against all forms of sex or gender discrimination including harassment, domestic violence, and more.

Access: Visit the Title IX website to report an incident, help a friend, or access support services.
Estimated wait time: None.
Referral Tip: You can contact the CCS Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, Lauren Rosato, directly by calling (858) 693-2355 or emailing [email protected]

Beyond Safety Resources

SDSU offers a self-defense conditioning class (for credit) to students through Aztec recreation.

Access: SDSU offers a self-defense conditioning class (for credit) to students through Aztec recreation. There is a fee associated with this course.
Estimated wait time: Classes are offered every semester, check the course catalog for times/days.
Referral Tip: Aztec Recreation membership NOT required.
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Immediate Resources

This program gives you personalized feedback about your marijuana use. The program takes about 20-30 minutes to complete, is self-guided, and requires no face-to-face contact time with a counselor.

Access: Take the marijuana eCHECKUP to go here.
Estimated wait time: None
Referral Tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

This program gives you personalized feedback about your alcohol use. The program takes about 20-30 minutes to complete, is self-guided, and requires no face-to-face contact time with a counselor.

Access: Take the alcohol eCHECKUP to go here.
Estimated wait time: None
Referral Tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

Beyond AOD Resources

SDSU Well-being & Health Promotion offers presentations about alcohol and other drugs for classes, groups or organizations.

Access: Request an alcohol and other drugs presentation here.
Estimated wait time: Minimum of two weeks to schedule presentation.
Referral tip: A W&HP representative will reach out to you via email to confirm your presentation date. We will create a secure Zoom meeting link for the presentation. Estimated wait time: All presentations must be made approximately two weeks ahead. Changes due to COVID-19: Presentations may be offered in-person or virtually.

The ASPIRE program is one-on-one counseling that may help students experiencing sleep deprivation because of drinking or substance use. The program can help students look at where they are in life currently versus where they want to be and make adjustments.

Access: Call Counseling & Psychological Services at (619) 594-5220 or email them at [email protected] and say “I’m interested in the ASPIRE program”
Estimated wait time: Same-day consultations.
Referral tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: Counseling services are virtual.

Immediate Academic Resources

Provides semester checkout of laptops, webcams, and/or WiFi hotspots based on need and availability.

Access: Visit the library technology checkout website to fill out a technology equipment request form and to seek additional technology resource assistance.
Estimated wait time: Approximately one week for assessment.
Referral tip: Make sure you’re logged into your @sdsu.edu email before filling out the technology equipment form. A representative from the SDSU Library will contact you within five business (or 7 calendar) days of your request so check your sdsu email regularly in this time frame.
Changes due to COVID-19: The buildings are closed, but the Library's online services are available, along with Domeside book pickup and outdoor study space. For the current status of Library services visit the Library's COVID-19 page.

ECRT aims to bridge the gap in resources for students experiencing immediate food, housing, or unforeseen financial crises that impacts student success. Using a holistic approach to well-being, ECRT supports students through crisis by leveraging a campus-wide collaboration that utilizes on and off-campus partnerships and provides direct referrals based on each student’s unique circumstances. ECRT empowers students to identify and access long term, sustainable solutions in an effort to successfully graduate from SDSU.

Access: Request ECRT assistance here
Estimated wait time: 72 hours (students in crisis will be reached out to as soon as possible).
Referral tip: Complete what you can and provide as much information as you feel comfortable with. The information will be used for coordinators to help connect you with resources in a timely manner. ECRT will first reach out via email, using the SDSU email that you provide on the intake form. Be sure to keep an eye on your SDSU email within the first 72 that you submit your request for follow up information from ECRT Coordinators.
The Economic Crisis Response Team (ECRT) maintains and regularly updates a list of discounted internet rates for students, from AT&T, Cox, and more.
Changes due to COVID-19: ECRT is currently operating completely virtually. All communication will be done via email, zoom, or phone call.

Beyond Academic Resources

Advisers provide academic advising for General Education and Graduation requirements. This includes helping students plan their courses, meet major requirements and change their majors. See an academic advisor if you want to talk about general education and graduation requirements. If you want to talk about major requirements and preparing for a major then talk to a Major Advisor.

Access: Schedule an appointment here for academic advising
Estimated wait time: For Virtual Academic Advising wait time is determined by student schedule. Phone advising has no wait time.
Referral tip: Review your degree evaluation before seeing an advisor to get an idea of what you’re working with. When you email your adviser, it's best to use your secured sdsu.edu account and include your full name and Red ID. Your adviser will need this info to access your record and help get your questions answered.
Changes due to COVID-19: For general inquiries, use their Virtual Front Desk or email them at [email protected] Advisers in the Academic Advising Center are available for advising virtually through Zoom or by phone. Please visit the Academic Advising Center website for contact information.

Each college has an assistant dean for student affairs. The role of the Assistant Dean for student affairs is to support students with high level academic policies and procedures, they are the first point of contact when a student has academic issues that go beyond the scope of a professor or academic adviser, and non-academic issues that affect their academics. Assistant deans serve as liaison between Student Affairs and Academic Affairs by serving on and participating in university-, division-, and college-wide committees and meetings.

Assistant deans also manage college participation in programs that seek to integrate students into the University community, such as New Student Programs, Freshman Success, Faculty-Student Mentorship Program, Honors Program, New Student and Family Convocation, and programs run by student groups, and work in conjunction with the Centers for Student Involvement and Associated Students to advise, develop and enhance College councils, student participation in leadership development activities and student organization advisor training.

Access: There are 2 effective means for contacting your Assistant Dean. One is to find their email address on the college's website and send them an email, the second is to request a meeting through SDSU Navigate.
Estimated wait time: Response times may vary depending on setting. Can be reached weekly at their respective College Council meetings. Emails may take several business days.
Referral tip: Be sure to include your own contact information and detailed information about why you are reaching out to your assistant dean. This will help the assistant dean reach back out to you more effectively and with greater context
Changes due to COVID-19: N/A

The office of the registrar helps students with registration issues, verification of enrollment and unites, changing/declaring a major.

Access: Visit the Office of the Registrar website to browse their resources. Call (619) 594-6871, fill out the Contact Us form, or connect with their Virtual Front Desk.
Estimated wait time: There is no wait for the Chatbot or Virtual Front Desk options. Phone and Contact Us form wait times vary based on time of year.
Referral Tip: N/A
Changes due to COVID-19: Additional virtual programming has been added. After hours support has been added via the Office of the Registrar Chatbot on the bottom right side of their home page.

Contact Us

For general inquiries, please email us at [email protected] or call us at 619-594-4133

Basic Needs Center

Calpulli Center, 3rd floor (map)
San Diego State University
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-4705

Economic Crisis Response Team
Email: [email protected]

Basic Needs Center

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