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EFF ESSENTIALSWELCOME HOME.

FIND REAL HELP

RESOURCE CENTER

Start with verified campus information when it exists. When it does not, EFF Essentials shows honest national or community entry points—not invented programs.

FoodCampus pantry states and community food finders.HousingHousing guidance, counseling, and provider-gated listings.Without stable housingDignity-centered urgent starting points.Foster studentsState and campus support frameworks.Student parentsChild care, food, family housing, and more.TransportationOfficial routes, passes, and assistance.Tuition and emergency aidA checklist for talking with your school.TechnologyDevice, internet, library, and campus support.HealthOfficial health entry points; no medical advice.

SEARCH WITHOUT AN ACCOUNT

Start with a place and a need.

Local provider search turns on when approved credentials are connected. National entry points work now.

SOURCE-LABELED RESULTS

6 national starting points

Verified source links

Call or check the provider's website before traveling. Hours, eligibility, and funding can change.

recognized nonprofitChecked 2026-07-29

211

Call 211 or search by location for referrals to local food, housing, transportation, health, and other essential services. Availability and coverage vary by area.

Source
United Way 211
Coverage
United States; local coverage varies
Status
Provider source
Open official source 211
recognized nonprofitChecked 2026-07-29

Feeding America food finder

Enter a ZIP code to find a Feeding America network food bank and ask about local pantries, distributions, and meal programs.

Source
Feeding America
Coverage
United States
Status
Provider source
Open official source
governmentChecked 2026-07-29

Federal Student Aid

Official federal information about FAFSA, dependency status, aid offers, and student-aid steps. Your college determines institutional and individual aid decisions.

Source
U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid
Coverage
United States
Status
Government source
Open official source
governmentChecked 2026-07-29

Federal Student Aid and homeless youth

Official educational information about FAFSA questions for unaccompanied students experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.

Source
U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid
Coverage
United States
Status
Government source
Open official source
governmentChecked 2026-07-29

HUD housing counseling

Search for a HUD participating housing counseling agency or call the official housing-counseling line. Confirm services with the agency.

Source
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Coverage
United States
Status
Government source
Open official source 800-569-4287
eff verifiedChecked 2026-07-29

EFF National Student Help Desk

A separate Esther Funds Foundation support entry point for students navigating college barriers. Assistance and funding are not guaranteed.

Source
Esther Funds Foundation
Coverage
National
Status
EFF program link
Open official source