New Basic Needs Hub At Towson University Offers Free Food, Clothing, And More

TOWSON - In an effort to tackle the unseen financial challenges that many students face, Towson University has launched the Basic Needs Hub, an expansion of its former program, Towson University FoodShare.

The Basic Needs Hub is located next to the Towsontown Parking Garage and will serve as a centralized location for students to access free food, clothing, and personal care items.

According to the university, the Basic Needs Hub will offer a much more comprehensive range of services than the University FoodShare. One of the new programs is Tiger Threads, a clothing initiative that supplies everything from brand-new undergarments to donated shirts and pants.

"The hub not only makes these essential services more accessible but also raises awareness among students who might not need them, encouraging a more inclusive and empathetic campus culture," said Alison Peer, Towson University's associate dean of students.

Starting this semester, the university plans to broaden its reach by installing three additional food pantries across campus and introducing food lockers to replace the remote pick-up bin previously located in the University Union.

The Basic Needs Hub also aims to facilitate the process for students who may be eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The hub has developed a tutorial video and will offer peer-to-peer SNAP application assistance in conjunction with the Department of Family Studies & Community Development.

The Basic Needs Hub is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Remote pick-up is also available for those who require assistance outside these hours.

Future plans for the hub include adding services such as transportation, prescription drug assistance, housing, child care, and financial, culinary, and literacy courses.

"Our goal is to ensure that all students can focus on their academics without worrying about meeting their basic needs. Whether a student missed breakfast because they were rushing to class or hasn't had a meal in days, we are here to help," Program director Faith Borras said.

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