
Mission Statement
Basic Needs mission is to empower students by connecting them with essential on-campus and community resources that address basic needs, including food, housing, transportation, clothing and other vital services. We are committed to reducing barriers, promoting equity and providing compassionate support so every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
Our Vision
We aspire to create an environment in which every student receives equal distribution of needed resources to succeed academically, be well personally and to have a sustainable future. By using teamwork, advocacy, and partnerships, we strive to create an environment in which people’s basic needs do not pose a hindrance to their successful educational outcomes.
Services
- Referrals to resources for emergency housing, transportation, hygiene, mental health and more
- Food & Nutrition Center
- Campus Care Lockers
- Showers
- Grab N’ Go fridges
- Comet’s Closet
- Diapers and wipes
- Period products
- Click “Site Menu” on the top left of our page to learn more!
Faculty and Staff Incident Reports
Are you a faculty or staff member looking to refer a student to Basic Needs? Please submit an Incident Report.
Students
Are you a student looking for basic needs resources? Please submit the Basic Needs Intake Form.
Donations and Donors
How To Donate
Monetary
Monetary Donations are vital in assisting our Food & Nutrition Center to be able to provide continued food and basic needs assistance for students and staff.
- Monetary check donations can be written directly to the Palomar College Foundation and sent to 1140 W. Mission Rd., San Marcos, CA 92069 or you can make a donation online and select the Maag Food and Nutrition Center. Thank you!
Food and/or Basic Need Resources
Food Item Donations are another critical piece in our services. Please, only factory-sealed and non-expired items.
We recommend the following donations:
- Baby Food
- Bread
- Rice
- Cereals
- Fresh Produce
- Basic Household cleaning supplies
For a guide to shelf-stable foods and expiration dates, please visit: USDA Shelf Stable Food Chart

