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Basic Needs and Student Support

Students can face financial challenges or unexpected life events during their college careers. Nationally and at Penn State, food, transportation, and housing insecurity are increasing concerns for many college students. We are here to help provide the resources you need to thrive and succeed, so you can focus on your goals and make the most of your time at Penn State.

If you are struggling to afford basic needs, such as food, housing, transportation, or other basic needs, we are here for you. If you need help — or if you are uncertain about your needs — reach out to one of the many resources available on campus or in the community.

Penn State Cares - sometimes students need a small financial boost to get through a rough period. Penn State Cares provides nominal financial support for students to use at grocery stores, gas stations, drug stores and more. Visit the Penn State York Office of Student Affairs, Room 206 Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center (The Ruhl Center), to get started.

Student Emergency Fund/Basic Needs Request - if you're a student who is facing challenges with access to adequate food, housing, transportation, or other basic needs, complete this request form. A case manager from Student Care and Advocacy will reach out to work with you to identify appropriate resources. If you’ve experienced an unforeseen expense, like a car repair, etc., the Student Emergency Fund can help you manage the unexpected and keep you focused on your academic goals.

Penn State's Guide to Public Assistance Programs – this website can help you navigate through the many services available to help you with food, housing, and medical concerns.

Community Food Assistance

York County Food Bank
15 Marianne Dr.
York PA 17406
717-846-6435

Catholic Harvest Food Pantry
628 E. Market St.
York PA 17403
717-846-8571

Transportation Assistance

The Office of Student Affairs, 206 Ruhl Center, sells discounted bus passes for Rabbittransit. These are 40 percent off the retail cost and can be purchased with cash, check or LionCash during regular office hours.

Housing Assistance

If you are experiencing housing insecurity, complete the request for student basic needs and a case manager will contact you to review available resources.

Health Care and Health Insurance Assistance

Connect with Penn State York’s Community Health Worker for assistance and case management.

When in doubt, reach out! If the unexpected happens, we are here to help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Office of Student Affairs for resources and assistance.

Office of Student Affairs
206 Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center
717-771-4045

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Office of Student Affairs

206 Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center
717-771-4045

Meet the Staff
Locations of Penn State’s campuses throughout Pennsylvania with Penn State York highlighted

Penn State York

Situated on 51 beautiful hillside acres overlooking the historic city of York in south-central Pennsylvania, Penn State York offers a small, engaging college environment with all the resources of a major research university.
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1031 Edgecomb Avenue, York, Pennsylvania 17403-3326 717-771-4000

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