Targeted to fully open in fall 2026, this centralized hub has begun serving the university community as staff and services moved to the new space in the lower level of the Howard Gittis Student Center.
Temple has launched the first phase of the new Essential Needs Hub that will serve the student community.
Photo by Ryan S. Brandenberg
Across the U.S., a large number of college students struggle to meet their basic needs required for well-being. A 2024 survey from Temple University’s Hope Center for Student Basic Needs showed that more than half of college students nationally reported experiencing at least one form of basic needs insecurity related to food or housing.
To address these challenges that undermine academic performance and retention, Temple has created the Essential Needs Hub.
This comprehensive and centralized center integrates services and resources such as food, housing, clothing, transportation security, mental health support, benefits navigation, case management and emergency and legal aid.
“The Essential Needs Hub represents a transformational step for Temple,” said Jodi Bailey Accavallo, vice president for student affairs. “By creating a coordinated system, we remove barriers before they derail a student’s journey. The hub is a visible commitment to our mission of access and excellence and ensures that every student, regardless of circumstance, can fully engage in their education and thrive here.
“Offering this hub affirms that Temple not only educates students in the classroom, but also supports their whole lives, aligning with our goals of retention, success and belonging,” she added.
On Oct. 10, the Essential Needs Hub launched its first phase, which entailed opening classroom and programming space and moving staff from Case Management and Crisis Services, Community Benefits Navigation, and Off-campus Living Support to the lower level of the Howard Gittis Student Center.
“We want to build awareness now about what will be available to students so that they feel comfortable and confident accessing these resources,” said Deanne DeCrescenzo, assistant vice president of student advocacy and engagement in the Division of Student Affairs.
In collaboration with campus units like the Health and Well-being Division, Student Financial Services and the Career Center, the hub would like to provide immunization clinics, tax preparation, FAFSA workshops and wellness events.
Additionally, once completed, the Essential Needs Hub aims to have a Temple Thrift storefront, a bike repair shop and distribution center, a satellite location for the Resiliency Resource Center, decompression and sensory spaces and technology access and charging stations.
“We’re proud to be leading the way in offering a comprehensive essential needs center that centralizes resources and is designed to directly support student success,” said DeCrescenzo. “We’re committed to this collaborative and proactive model that will fill in the gaps for our students because all students deserve the support needed to succeed at Temple.”
