In a recent meeting of the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding the alarming rates of basic needs insecurity among Washington students. The discussion was anchored by findings from the 2024 Post-Secondary Basic Needs Security Survey, which revealed that over half of the 11,300 respondents from 45 public and tribal institutions reported experiencing food or housing insecurity in the past year.

The survey indicated a troubling increase in food insecurity, with 49% of students reporting inadequate access to food in the previous month—a 14.3% rise from 2022. Notably, certain demographics, particularly American Indian, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander students, faced disproportionately high rates of insecurity. The data highlighted that students with backgrounds in homelessness or foster care were among the most affected.

The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by student parents, with 76% of those surveyed indicating they could not afford necessary childcare without jeopardizing their basic needs. Additionally, nearly half of the respondents reported inadequate access to healthcare and mental health services, further complicating their educational pursuits.

Despite the availability of public benefits and campus resources, the survey revealed that many students were either unaware of these supports or feared ineligibility, with one in three not accessing available resources. However, there was a slight improvement in resource utilization compared to previous years, suggesting a growing awareness among students.

To combat these issues, the committee discussed recent legislative efforts, including the Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness Program and the Post-Secondary Basic Needs Act of 2023. These initiatives aim to provide emergency support and create a sustainable framework for addressing basic needs through benefits navigation and strategic planning at institutions.

The meeting underscored the need for ongoing efforts to enhance resource accessibility and address the systemic barriers that contribute to basic needs insecurity. As Washington continues to develop policies aimed at supporting its students, the findings from the survey serve as a critical reminder of the extensive challenges many face in their pursuit of higher education. The committee's discussions signal a commitment to fostering an environment where all students can thrive academically without the burden of unmet basic needs.