When things get really tight
Asking for help is a financial skill — not a moral failure. These resources exist for you. Use them.
Food — right now
- Purdue University Northwest food pantry
PNW has a free, no-judgment food pantry for any enrolled student. No questions asked.
- Foodbank of Northwest Indiana
Find a food bank near you across Northwest Indiana.
- SNAP for PNW students
If you work 20+ hrs/week or qualify for work-study, you may get $200+/month in groceries.
Housing & shelter
- Talk to PNW's Dean of Students
PNW has emergency housing support and keeps things confidential. This is what they're there for.
- 211.org
Dial 211 or visit 211.org for local housing assistance, anywhere in the U.S.
- SchoolHouse Connection
Resources specifically for students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
Emergency cash
- Ask your Dean of Students & Financial Aid office about emergency grants
Most schools have small emergency grants ($100–$1,000) for unexpected costs. You don't pay them back.
- Edquity / Believe in Students
Connects students with rapid-response micro-grants.
Mental health & someone to talk to
- Call or text 988
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free, confidential, 24/7. Call, text, or chat.
- Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741
Free 24/7 support over text from a trained counselor.
- PNW's Counseling Center
Free for enrolled PNW students. You don't need to be 'in crisis' to go.
You belong in college. You belong in conversations about money. Tough times don't change that. 🌿
Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) — free, 24/7, confidential. You deserve support.