On December 6, FoundationCCC’s Equity and Fresh Success teams participated in the Community College League of California’s Real College Basic Needs Summit, hosted by Lemoore College. 

The event tackled the pressing issue of the disproportionately high levels of food insecurity, homelessness, and poverty among California community college students. The summit brought together administrators, faculty, staff, and student leaders to explore ways to alleviate basic needs insecurity and build supportive campus communities. 

During the summit, the Equity team led a session focused on a holistic and student-centered approach to supporting undocumented students in basic needs conversations. They shared information and tools about basic needs resources, including Find Your Ally, CalFresh, California’s Low Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA), and Crisis Text Line. The session also highlighted statewide initiatives and showcased undocumented promising practices from Allan Hancock, Los Angeles Valley, and Cerro Coso Colleges, providing valuable insights into fostering equity, collaboration, and inclusion in student services.

FoundationCCC, along with our system partners, sponsored the summit, reinforcing our collective commitment to student success. Thanks to funding from the Walter S. Johnson Foundation, three student ambassadors had the opportunity to attend with the team. Special recognition goes to Vincent Brewer, a student ambassador from San Bernardino Valley College, who was awarded a scholarship from the Real College California Coalition for his dedication and leadership. The event served as a catalyst for advancing equity and addressing the critical needs of students statewide. 

Learn more about our work supporting students >