About the Program
The Basic Needs Program supports currently enrolled UNLV 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
UNLV students can access items from our office once a week.
Office Information
- Office Location: UNLV Student Union, Room 309
- Email: basicneeds@unlv.edu
- Phone: 702-895-4534
- Winter 2025 Hours
Monday - Thursday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday - Sunday: Closed
*Winter hours will begin on December 15th. Note that the UNLV Student Union building will be closed December 20th - January 1st. If you need support during this time period, please email basicneeds@unlv.edu.
Additional Support
If you are in need of assistance with other basic needs and services on campus, please refer to the UNLV Students website.
Donate
We accept donations year-round. Donations support enrolled UNLV 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.
- UNLV Student Union, Room 309
Our Story
The UNLV 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.