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What are Basic Needs?

At Modesto Junior College, Basic Needs refer to the essential resources that directly support the well-being and success of our students. 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

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

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.

Basic Needs Services Includes:

Student assisting the Pirates' Pantry
Pirates' Pantry

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.

Visit the Pirates's Pantry
Housing Support Services

Support and guidance to housing, shelters, and emergency aid.

Learn more about housing resources
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Student Parent and daughter coming to campus for resources
Student Parent Resources

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!

Discover our Student Parent Resources

Basic Needs Inquiry Form Fall 2025
We have a new form for all Basic Needs Services.

If you're interested in accessing Basic Needs Services such as food assistance, housing support services, or student-parent resources, please complete the Fall 2025 Basic Needs Inquiry Form.

After this form is completed and submitted, a member of our team will contact you to further assist you with your specified need(s).

Please make sure you have access to your MJC email via the Outlook website or app.
Other Free Services Related to Basic Needs

Career Services

Career Services at MJC offers career assistance focused on career exploration and professional readiness

Counseling 

Academic, career, and personal counseling is provided as a service to all MJC students in the Counseling Department

FLOW

(Free Lunch On Wednesdays) An event hosted by students with the goal of treating other students to lunch

Financial Aid -MJC

Student financial services and guidance

Health Services 

MJC promotes the health and wellness of students through health education and services to optimize their overall well-being

TimelyCare 24/7 Virtual Care Services

Free mental health support

Transportation

MJC students ride the StanRTA bus for free with a valid student ID