Basic Needs

We believe every student deserves access to the essential resources needed to thrive. The Student Care and Outreach Team and our campus and community partners offer a range of free resources to support your basic needs.

Initiatives on our Campus

Gamecock CommUnity Shop

The Gamecock CommUnity Shop (Unity Shop) is a free resource for anyone with a valid Carolina Card to access food, toiletries, clothing, and academic supplies.  This shop is located at the Carolina Coliseum, Suite 4000.

Carolina Cares Fund

Funded solely by donors, the Carolina Cares Fund is available to currently enrolled students for verifiable emergency expenses that are defined as unexpected, unforeseen, unavoidable and urgent in nature. The fund is not intended to be used for routine expenses or as a consistent supplement to a student’s education funding sources. Typically, the maximum award is $2,000.

Money Smart

Succeeding academically can be difficult if you are struggling financially. The Student Success Center Money Management program is available to help prepare you for any financial challenges you might face while in college. This link includes money management consultations and emergency loans.

Garnet Bites

Sign up for Garnet Bites to receive notifications of available food on campus after a catered event. Faculty, staff and students are all welcome to join the list to be notified and help reduce food waste on campus.

Swipe Out Hunger

Swipe Out Hunger is a national program that allows students to share their extra meal swipes with peers. This website includes an application for students to apply for a block meal plan with swipes shared by USC students. If you are interested in sharing swipes, please contact unityshop@sc.edu 

Community Resources

Additional well-being and basic needs resources are available in the Columbia-area.