Supporting students in challenging times

66% of Lee College students said they would struggle to get $500 in the event of an emergency.

Nearly 20% of Lee College students have cut the size of a meal or eaten less because they had no money for food.

“I believe Lee College students benefit from the Student Resource & Advocacy Center. I am grateful for the opportunity and couldn’t have accomplished my goals and stayed motivated throughout my semesters without their help.” – Priscilla Guzman

The COVID-19 pandemic illuminated basic needs challenges for college students locally and nationwide; however, we recognize that the need for fundamental human supports of our students will continue far beyond the pandemic.

Lee College will continue to meet the needs of our students through the SRAC, which will serve as a central hub for students seeking basic needs supports and community referrals.

The SRAC will be co-located with the Learning Hub and First-Year Experience to reduce the stigma of using such services and increase utilization by placing valuable student services together. The SRAC will provide the following direct services:

• Food Market: Through our partnership with the Houston Food Bank, Lee College students will receive up to 60 pounds of groceries every two weeks, to include meat, dairy, fresh produce, and non-perishable items. Hygiene and baby supplies will also be available.

• Emergency Aid: Emergency Aid funding will be provided to students facing an unexpected financial challenge that may hinder their ability to be a successful student. Examples of emergency aid expenses include electricity, water, phone, rent, vehicle repair and insurance.

• Childcare Assistance: Childcare assistance consists of weekly payments of up to $100 per student for childcare expenses. Childcare assistance can be used to pay for one-time registration fees, after school care, or summer childcare when funds are available.

• Transportation Assistance: Transportation assistance will be available to students through gas gift cards and Harris County Transit bus passes.

• Single Parent Success Program: The Single Parent Success Program consists of regular meetings with a case manager, meeting with an academic advisor, completion of a financial aid application, and participation in educational workshops and events designed for student parents. Upon completion of these requirements, students will receive a scholarship.

• Career Closet: Business casual and professional attire will be provided to students for use in job interviews, jobs, or other professional functions.