When this student first arrived at Westchester Community College, she had no idea the campus offered a food pantry.

Now in her fourth semester, she stops by the WCC Pantry once a week to pick up groceries, hygiene items, and other essentials — all available to students at no cost. What might seem simple on the surface has made a meaningful difference in her daily life.

“It saves me a lot on groceries and even things like feminine products,” she shares. “I can come once a week and pick out what I need.”

Before discovering the pantry and Student Support Services, she was overwhelmed. Financial pressure and personal challenges were building, and staying enrolled no longer felt certain.

“I was on the verge of dropping out,” she says. “I didn’t even know our school had these free resources.”

Finding support changed everything. Access to food and emergency resources provided stability at a critical moment — enough breathing room to focus on classes, internships, and long-term goals instead of constant financial stress.

“They really helped me get back up on my feet,” she explains. “Not just me, but my family too.”

Balancing school and internships means she is not working full time. At first, she felt guilty that her parents were covering expenses for her and her sibling. Bringing groceries and essentials home each week has eased some of that weight.

“In a way, I’m helping my family out,” she says. “I’m saving money on groceries and other products. That feels good.”

Beyond the food itself, what stands out most is the environment.

“It’s a judgment-free zone,” she says. “We’re all going through it. This office definitely has your back.”

For students facing difficult choices between paying bills, buying food, and continuing their education, having consistent access to basic necessities can determine what comes next. In this case, it meant staying in school and continuing forward.

Because when students know someone has their back, they can keep going.

And that changes everything.