Two Out of Three SDCCD Students Struggle With Food and/or Housing Insecurity

October 23, 2025

A recent survey reveals that over two-thirds of San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) students face food and/or housing insecurity, mirroring similar challenges across California community colleges. The 2025 Real College Survey found that 44% of SDCCD students were food insecure, 59% experienced housing insecurity, and 23% identified as homeless. In response, SDCCD's four colleges—San Diego City College, San Diego Mesa College, San Diego Miramar College, and San Diego College of Continuing Education—have implemented various resources including food pantries, clothing services, emergency grants, and transportation assistance.

Who is affected

San Diego Community College District students (67% struggling with food and/or housing insecurity)
California community college students across 102 colleges (46% food insecure, 58% housing insecure, 20% experiencing homelessness)
Specifically, students at San Diego City College, San Diego Mesa College, San Diego Miramar College, and San Diego College of Continuing Education

What action is being taken

All SDCCD colleges are maintaining food pantries and lists of local resources for students in need
Colleges are offering transit passes, gas cards, clothing, and emergency grants
City College operates Knights' Table Food Pantry, Knights' Threads & Things, and Fresh Cutz Barbershop
Mesa College runs The Stand resource center and offers $50-$500 grants from its Resiliency Fund
Miramar College provides the Jet Fuel Resource Center with bi-monthly free farmers markets
College of Continuing Education offers the CARES program with multiple support services
Construction is underway for an affordable student housing complex at City College

Why it matters

According to Susan Topham, SDCCD Vice Chancellor of Educational Services, meeting basic needs for food and housing is essential for students to succeed academically
Without addressing these fundamental needs, students face challenges that impede their academic progress
The resources provided help address the high percentages of food insecurity (44%), housing insecurity (59%), and homelessness (23%) among SDCCD students

What's next

The affordable student housing apartment complex at City College is expected to open in fall 2028 with 800 beds at below-market rental rates

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint