Basic Needs & Food Resources
Supporting student well-being, financial wellness, and food security at UC Merced
Basic Needs Center
The UC Merced Basic Needs Center provides a range of services aimed at supporting student well-being and success through prevention, intervention, and emergency relief. Connect to critical support systems including food assistance, CalFresh outreach, financial wellness, and career attire.
Key Programs: Bobcat Pantry, Professional Closet, and CalFresh Assistance.
Location: Terrace Center (TC) 106
Contact: Basicneeds@ucmerced.edu
Financial Coaching
Are you feeling financial anxiety or stress? Build a personalized financial action plan to help you succeed now and in the future. Schedule a one-on-one chat with Charah Coleman, UC Merced's Financial Wellness Coordinator, to explore budgeting, literacy, and planning resources.
Individualized support for student financial planning and wellness.
The following organizations are unaffiliated with our program and the University of California-Merced
Merced County Food Bank
The Merced County Food Bank, a member of the Feeding America Network, secures donations from food and grocery manufacturers, retailers, shippers, packers, growers, and from government agencies, individuals and other organizations.
- Low income families are eligible.
- MediCal members qualify for two free boxes of food each month.
Location: 2000 W Olive Ave
Phone: (209) 726-3663
Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00AM – 3:00PM
Merced Farmer's Market
The city of Merced has it's own farmer's market which is hosted year round. Have access to buying fresh produce from the local community and support your farmers!
The Farmer's Market at Merced is one of many that accept CalFresh EBT benefits as purchase for fresh, locally grown food!
- EBT is accepted by some vendors.
Location: Corner of 16th st. & M St.
Contact: info@mercedcfm.com
Hours: Every Saturday: 8:00AM – 11:00AM
Salvation Army Merced
The Salvation Army provides assistance in housing and food through volunteers & donations. Emergency food assistance is provided once every two months.
- Photo ID required
- Proof of Address Mail required
Location: 1440 W. 12th Street
Phone: (209) 383-4225
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday: 9:00AM – 11:45AM
