Belonging & Essential Needs

For many Maryland students, the path to graduation is anything but smooth. Some skip meals to make rent, others juggle multiple jobs while supporting their families, and many face mental health challenges that make even daily life difficult. Without access to essential resources, promising students risk falling behind or leaving school altogether.

Student Affairs addresses these needs through coordinated efforts across campus. The Thrive Center serves as a one-stop hub for food, housing, finances and well-being, while the Campus Pantry provides nutritious meals and teaches practical cooking skills to those facing food insecurity. The Student Crisis Fund delivers immediate assistance for emergencies, including medical or dental expenses, temporary housing and transportation. Programs such as Fostering Terp Success and first-generation student initiatives provide coaching, mentorship and tailored resources that build stability and confidence.

Your philanthropy makes this work possible. Gifts sustain the Thrive Center’s staff and facilities and help the Campus Pantry meet growing demand. They also fund emergency relief through the Student Crisis Fund and support scholarships and programming for first-generation students and those in foster care or experiencing homelessness. Additionally, they help us sustain the named Dean of Students position, which provides leadership and coordination for Essential Needs teams. These teams collaborate across all colleges, schools and units to share resources and provide timely support to those who need it most.