At Modesto Junior College, Basic Needs refer to the essential resources that directly support the well-being and success of our students, including food, stable housing, and mental wellness. While Basic Needs can encompass a broad range of services, Basic Needs Initiatives at Modesto Junior College focuses on improving access to food, housing, mental health support, financial assistance, and resources for student parents. These areas are essential for student success and help ensure that students can thrive academically and personally.
Our vision is to ensure that every MJC student has access to the essential resources they need—such as food, housing, mental health support, and student parent resources—so they can overcome barriers, feel supported, and focus on achieving their academic and personal goals.
Our mission is to support MJC students by providing access to essential resources—including food, housing assistance, mental health support, and student parent resources—so they can focus on their academic success and personal well-being.
Modesto Junior College is committed to fostering a compassionate, inclusive, and respectful educational environment that recognizes and supports students facing food and housing insecurity, as well as other mental, emotional, and life challenges. Through our Basic Needs Initiatives, we strive to ensure every student has the stability and care they need to thrive.
Currently enrolled MJC students may be eligible to receive free food! We are here
to support students in need of additional food and basic needs throughout the educational
journey at MJC. Support and guidance to housing, shelters, and emergency aid. The journey to and through college is challenging for many students, but it is even
more challenging for student parents as they juggle academic demands while also raising
children. MJC is here to help!
Career Services at MJC offers career assistance focused on career exploration and professional readiness
Academic, career, and personal counseling is provided as a service to all MJC students in the Counseling Department.
Student financial services and guidance.
(Free Lunch On Wednesdays) An event hosted by students with the goal of treating other students to lunch.
MJC promotes the health and wellness of students through health education and services to optimize their overall well-being.
Support and guidance to housing, shelters, and emergency aid.
We help meet the basic needs of students through the availability of free food as well as on and off-campus resources.
Free mental health support.
Your generous donations make a real difference in the lives of students who are working hard to complete their education and pursue transfer or career opportunities.
When donating, be sure to designate Pirates' Pantry.
We appreciate your generosity!
Our Helping Hands Volunteers can be of huge help in the following manners:
Interested in volunteering for Basic Needs? Learn more by clicking the link below!
The Basic Needs Program is currently Hiring Student Workers.
Before applying, applicants are required to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be enrolled in a minimum of 6 units in the current semester.
The maximum amount of hours offered is 20 hours per week. Hourly wage is $16/hour.
If you are interested in a student worker position, please complete the form below.
