Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week (HHWeek) is an initiative dedicated to building a more just society by tackling issues of poverty, hunger, and homelessness by raising awareness about these challenges, advocating for impactful policy change, and engaging communities (especially students) in meaningful action. Rooted in solidarity and compassion, their values drive us to empower voices affected by poverty, champion dignity, and inspire collective efforts to create sustainable, long-term solutions.
At UHD, we strive to provide dedicated resources and departments that work together to build a sustaining community for student to excel and succeed. One of these departments is the Basic Needs Center (BNC). According to Cynthia Parra, Assistant Director of the BNC, the center “collaborates with campus and community partners on issues like food insecurity, financial literacy, and homelessness awareness.” Parra said the BNC’s Gator Mart, an on-campus, volunteer-driven food bank that partners with the Houston Food Bank, provides students up to 20 pounds of free food per month. She added that the Gator Emergency Fund offers up to $500 annually for essential expenses like rent and utilities.
Another service provided is free counseling. Available to enrolled students (both in-person and virtually), Gators can start services by completing an online intake form or visiting the Counseling Department’s main office. The department collaborates closely with the Basic Needs Center, often providing a warm handoff to ensure students receive comprehensive support, said Director of Counseling Services Naomi Berger-Perez. “The Counseling Department provides emotional support for students dealing with food or housing insecurity, referring them to the Office of Basic Needs for resource specific assistance,” she said. “Together, we’re creating a campus where every student can thrive with dignity, security, and support.”
From the Gator Emergency Fund and Gator Mart’s partnership with the Houston Food Bank to the dedicated work of our Counseling Department, we’re building a strong foundation of resources that extend well beyond this week. With a network of support for students facing food and housing insecurity, UHD is ensuring that no one is left behind.