About the Program
The Basic Needs Program supports currently enrolled 51ԹϺ students with access to daily necessity items such as nonperishable food, hygiene items, school supplies, cleaning supplies/linens, and clothing all at no cost. Students can access items once a week. Most items are limited to one to two per student each week.
How to Access Basic Needs Support
51ԹϺ students can access items from our office once a week. To book an appointment to collect items, visit our .
Office Information
- Office Location: 51ԹϺ Student Union, Room 309
- Email: basicneeds@unlv.edu
- Phone: 702-895-5434
- Summer 2025 Hours
- Our office will be open by appointment Monday - Saturday during the summer.
- Closed during events and major holidays.
Additional Support
If you are in need of assistance with other basic needs and services on campus, please refer to the 51ԹϺ Students website.
Donate
We accept donations year-round. Donations support enrolled 51ԹϺ students experiencing basic needs insecurity. We ask that donations are new/unused and in good condition.
Acceptable Items
- Nonperishable food items
- Hygiene items
- Cleaning supplies
- School supplies
- Clothing and linens
Donation Schedule
- Monday - Friday
- 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- 51ԹϺ Student Union, Room 309
Our Story
The 51ԹϺ Basic Needs Program began in 2019 as a small pop-up closet, initially serving approximately 125 students through semesterly “Take What You Need” pop-up events. With the support of a Department of Education grant in 2023, the program significantly expanded its reach, launching the "Take What You Need" distribution events on a monthly basis that averaged 350 student participants per event. Committed to reducing the stigma around seeking help, the program emphasized creating a welcoming environment and offered weekly office hours where students could access essential supplies. These included nonperishable food items, full-size hygiene products, cleaning supplies, school supplies, clothing, and select childcare items.
As of summer 2025, the program transitioned from monthly events to offering in-office support six days a week (Monday through Saturday) to provide consistent, year-round access to enrolled students. In addition to daily necessities, students can apply for our Cap & Gown Lending Program, which supports undergraduate students facing financial hardships with accessing a regalia package (cap, gown, and tassel) to use for commencement.