Basic Needs Resources for UChicago Students

The University of Chicago has a plethora of resources that we offer to students during their time of need, explore them here:

Housing Insecurity Support / HOUSE Liaisons

UChicago's HOUSE Liaisons support students who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing stable housing. They can help students connect with both University and community resources, including housing, shelters, financial assistance, and other support services.

For undergraduate students in the College, students experiencing homelessness during designated academic breaks may be eligible for on-campus housing when residence halls are open.

Students can submit a referral to the HOUSE Liaison program. The liaisons can also connect students with the appropriate UChicago offices and community organizations.

For more information, go to UChicago Housing Insecurity Support.

UChicago Food Security Resources

Students who are experiencing hunger or skipping meals can request short-term food assistance.

During the academic year:

  • Students may receive limited meal swipes that can be used at UChicago Dining Commons.

  • Graduate and professional students should contact Student Support Services.

    • Graduate & Professional Students
      Student Support Services
      studentsupport@uchicago.edu
      773-702-2435

  • Undergraduate students should contact the Center for College Student Success.

    • Undergraduate Students
      Center for College Student Success
      ccss@uchicago.edu
      773-702-4537

During academic breaks:

The C.A.R.E.S. Initiative provides supplemental food resources to students experiencing food insecurity during designated academic breaks.

These programs are intended as short-term assistance. Students who need longer-term support can contact Student Support Services or the Center for College Student Success to discuss additional options.

UChicago Medicine Financial Assistance

UChicago Medicine offers financial assistance to patients who have difficulty paying for medically necessary health care because they are uninsured, underinsured, or have limited financial resources.

Eligibility is based on factors including household income, family size, financial resources, and medical needs.

Financial assistance applies to qualifying emergency and medically necessary care. Students who cannot pay their bill may also be able to arrange a payment plan.

Applications can be started through the UChicago Medicine MyChart patient portal. Applicants may need to provide documentation such as tax returns, W-2s, or recent pay stubs.

For more information, go to UChicago Medicine Financial Assistance.