On Wednesday afternoon, the Las Positas College Basic Needs Center partnered with several Tri-Valley organizations to host a resource and accessibility fair in the quad in front of the campus library.
According to representatives from LPC’s Basic Needs Center, the goal of the event was to connect students with local services that address housing insecurity, food access, healthcare and other essential needs.
Organizers said the fair — which took place from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. — was designed to raise awareness and break down barriers for students who may not know where to turn for help.
“We want to make sure that students don’t have any life stressors that will interfere with their academics,” said Dash Orel, a student assistant with the Basic Needs Center.
LPC student and lead organizer of the fair, Charmain Searing, said the event was deeply personal for her.
“As a single mother of four, I have experienced a lot of adversity, financial hardships and struggles,” Searing said. “Some of these organizations have supported me and my family. It’s the only reason why I’m here today and why I could complete my education and graduate this spring.”
A range of community groups participated, including the Tri-Valley Haven and Community Resources for Independent Living. The groups provided information on services such as emergency shelter, domestic violence support, rental assistance, disability resources and other community-based programs.
The fair comes at a time when many students across California are facing financial hardships. In 2023, the California Student Aid Commission found that 66%of California college students are food insecure and 53% are housing insecure.
In addition to having primary necessities met, Searing also expressed desire for students to have access to a support system.
“I hope students get a sense of community and connection and understanding that they are not alone,” Searing said. “In a lot of situations, I think that many students struggle with silent battles and difficult things that kind of makes it hard to stay in school. And letting them know that ‘hey you’re not alone and we support you.’ ”
The Basic Needs Center at Las Positas College continues to expand outreach efforts, including food distributions, transportation, childcare, mini market stations and connections to mental health services. Student parents can get access to diapers, wipes and other essentials at the Student Life Welcome Center. Organizers said they hope to make the fair an annual event.
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Top photo: Las Positas hosted a fair designed to help students understand the breadth of resources and aid available to them. (Photo courtesy of Envato Elements)
Sabrina Hossain is the Social Media Editor for The Express. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter @WritersBlock678.
