The College of the Desert Basic Needs Center aims to support currently enrolled students with their basic needs. The Basic Needs Center assists students by connecting them to both on-campus and off-campus resources, organizations and other support services to address food and housing insecurity, transportation, health and wellness and other social service needs. 

For assistance with basic needs contact the Basic Needs Center at basicneeds@collegeofthedesert.edu or visit the Basic Needs webpage. 

Central Pantry 

College of the Desert has two on-campus food pantries, services are free for currently enrolled students are able to access non-perishable items, fresh fruits, vegetables and other household items. The Central Pantry at the Palm Desert campus is located at South Annex 6, and at the Indio campus is located in the former Roadrunner Cafe behind the Bookstore in Building A. 

The Mecca Thermal Campus Micro Pantry located in the Student Commons is available to provide students with pantry access with limited hours. Contact the Mecca Thermal Campus Administrative Office at 760.396.2010 for hours of operation. 

Hours are subject to change, and limits may apply. For questions, students can contact the Basic Needs Center email at basicneeds@collegeofthedesert.edu.