Basic Needs

Cougar Food Pantry

The Cougar Food Pantry provides free, nonperishable items to students in need of food.

Market

The Canteen Micro Market on the first floor of the Dengerink Administration Building offers pre-packaged food items.

SNAP

SNAP provides monthly funding for food for eligible participants who enroll in the program.

Housing Bulletin Board

WSU Vancouver does not offer on-campus housing. The Housing Bulletin Board connects students with rental opportunities and allows them to advertise available spaces.

Bus Passes

WSU Vancouver students are eligible for a free bus pass, providing unlimited access to C-TRAN local and limited bus services. To obtain an Education Opportunity Pass, visit the Cougar Center for more information.

Gender-Inclusive Restrooms

Gender-inclusive restrooms are available in the Firstenburg Student Commons, Life Sciences Building, McClaskey Building, Physical Plant Building, Recreation Office (Annex), and Undergraduate Building.

Showers

Showers are available in the Fitness Center.

Child Care

Students can receive subsidies to help with child care costs while enrolled at WSU Vancouver. To apply for a subsidy, submit the Child Care Subsidy/Reimbursement Form. Innovative Services NW operates the child care center on campus. For help with the application, contact the Basic Needs Navigator.

Lactation Support

Find private, comfortable lactation spaces on campus in the Multimedia Classroom Building (Mamava pod), Clark College Building (Room 125D), or Life Sciences Building (Room 121).

Coug Money Matters

Students can access financial resources across all WSU campuses through this program. This program allows students to calculate their financial stress levels, identify their money personality to understand spending habits, focus on financial strengths and weaknesses, access free resume evaluations, and take courses to support financial goals.

Emergency Funding

WSU is committed to helping students access resources needed to thrive and complete their degree. Emergency funding is available to assist with housing, transportation, and healthcare expenses. Student Emergency Funds are offered to currently enrolled graduate and undergraduate students who are experiencing financial emergencies, such as housing, food, or health care. These funds are available only after all financial aid resources have been exhausted and are made possible by the generosity of donors.

Short-term Loans

Short-term loans of up to $1,000 are available to students awaiting financial aid disbursement. These loans are offered starting on the first day of the term for students whose financial aid is delayed. To apply for a short-term loan, email van.finaid@wsu.edu to request the application form.

Laptop Loaner Program

Students can borrow laptops from the WSU Vancouver Library on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead or visit the library to check availability.

Campus Wi-Fi Access

Students can connect to Wi-Fi across WSU Vancouver, including the Library, study rooms, and outdoor spaces like the quad. Wi-Fi is also available in parking lots, including Orange 1, Orange 3, the visitor loop, and Parking Services.

Students Helping Students

A student-led program offering free tech support at WSU Vancouver, with trained technicians providing troubleshooting, software training, and limited hardware support.

Counseling Services

Licensed mental health counselors are available at the Student Wellness Center to provide counseling, workshops, and resources for mental health and well-being in a supportive and equitable environment. Visit the website to learn how to schedule an appointment.

Basic Health Services

Health Services at the Student Wellness Center provides care for currently enrolled students, including evaluation and treatment of basic health concerns, wellness exams, and referrals to external providers.