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Support and Resources

 

Woman posing at outdoor tabling party.

Cornell University offers a vast number of resources to aid in student success and thriving. First-Generation & Low-Income (FGLI) Student Support empowers students to navigate and access essential resources for short-term relief and long-term planning to address their basic needs. Through the FGLI workshops, we educate students on maintaining financial sustainability, food security, stable housing, and overall wellness. Additionally, FGLI provides up to $500 of funding for low-income students with basic needs and access to transformational educational experiences. Below are resources and programs offered through our campus and community partners:

On-Campus Resources (Meeting Basic Needs)

Food

Cornell strives to alleviate barriers to student success, particularly when it comes to food security. Students have access to the following programs and resources:

  • Cornell Food Pantry:  The Cornell Food Pantry is a Free, permanent option for students facing food insecurity. Located at 109 McGraw Place, the Cornell Food Pantry is an initiative to help provide food security at Cornell. Click here to register and learn more information about the Cornell Food Pantry.
  • Anabel's Grocery: student-run grocery store offers fresh, nutritious, and affordable food for all Cornell students. This on-campus store accepts SNAP.
  • Swipe Out Hunger: students not on a meal plan can request emergency meal swipes and students who are on a meal plan can donate bonus meals to be distributed to students in need. For more information review FAQ’s. 
  • Healthy Eating: nutrition counseling is available for students seeking information about dietary needs.
  • Are you eligible for SNAP?
    The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal program aimed at combating hunger and food insecurity. Learn more about the SNAP program, your eligibility, and who to contact with questions here.

Housing

Cornell offers a variety of resources for on-and off-campus housing needs. 

  • If you have an urgent housing crisis and need an immediate housing solution, call Cornell University Dispatch at 607-255-1111 and request to be connected to the Administrator on-Call.
  • If you would like to live on campus, Cornell offers a range of housing options beyond traditional residential dorms. Browse expansive on-campus housing options and learn more about the multiple community centers where you can get a bite, find a place to study, work out, or just hang out with friends.
  • For those who are considering off-campus housing, we encourage you to get answers to your questions about leases, landlord disputes, renter’s insurance, or other off-campus housing issues by contacting the Office of Off-Campus Living. Off-Campus Living provides housing assistance, education, and referral services to the Cornell community that lives off-campus. They are committed to providing information and services that result in informed housing decisions.
  • It is also important to consider the legal implications of signing a lease. Ithaca Tenants Union offers many resources, including the Tenants Legal Hotline. Call 607-301-1560 for free legal advice about housing law violations in Tompkins County.

Health & Wellness

Cornell requires quality health insurance for all students. Student Health Benefits provides the information you need. 

  • Students who are eligible for NYS Medicaid are encouraged to discuss their options with a Student Health Benefit professional by emailing hp-medicaid@cornell.edu.
  • Need guidance or advice about a physical or mental health concern? Cornell Health can help. Or, call 607-255-5155 to speak with a health care provider 24/7 if you need guidance or advice about a physical or mental health concern. For emergencies, call 911.
  • Your mental health and emotional well-being are just as important as your physical health. Find a multitude of resources or connect with a Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) counselor to support your mental health at Cornell. Check out programs like Let’s Talk drop-in sessions and Let’s Meditate virtual sessions.

Here are additional campus-wide Mental Health Resources.

Finances

The Access Fund provides financial support for students with low-income status. Students with undocumented/DACA status who are low-income can also apply for the access fund. The Access Fund provides up to $500 per academic year (Spring & Fall semesters only) to aid with expenses such as professional or academic conference registration, a Cornell gym membership, unexpected catastrophic costs for medical, vision, or dental expenses not covered by insurance, or approved winter accessories. For more information about the Access Fund including application and process, please review FAQ’s.

For funding to support transformative experiences beyond the scope of the Access Fund, review these opportunities offered across Cornell’s colleges and schools.

If you have unexpected costs for an emergency, the Office of Financial Aid and Student Employment administers three(3) separate funds that provide assistance to students with necessary emergency expenses: the CU Emergency Fund, the Students Helping Student Fund, and DACA Renewal Fee Emergency Funds. For questions about your financial aid package or any of these funds, Schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid Counselor. Learn more about the undocumented/DACAmented student experience.

Looking to earn extra money and build skills? Review postings for available student jobs here.

Student Support and Advocacy Services

The Office of Student Support and Advocacy Services assists students in navigating difficult life events and crisis situations that impact their ability to be successful. They utilize a student-centered and individualized approach to support and empower students. The office serves as the central point of contact for students, families, and community members and collaborates with campus partners to holistically support students.

Off-Campus Resources (Meeting Basic Needs)

Food

Are you eligible for SNAP? The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal program aimed at combating hunger and food insecurity. Learn more about the SNAP program, your eligibility, and who to contact with questions here.

Housing

For those who are considering off-campus housing, we encourage you to get answers to your questions about leases, landlord disputes, renter’s insurance, or other off-campus housing issues by contacting the Office of Off-Campus Living. Off-Campus Living provides housing assistance, education, and referral services to the Cornell community that lives off-campus. They are committed to providing information and services that result in informed housing decisions.

Ithaca Tenants Union offers many resources, including the Tenants Legal Hotline for students signing off-campus housing leases. Call 607-301-1560 for free legal advice about housing law violations in Tompkins County.

Additional questions? We're here to help!

Please direct any questions to FGLIempowerment@cornell.edu.