Date

5-2026

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Abstract

Many students at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) experience food and housing insecurity and remain unaware of available campus resources. This capstone project, implemented through OtterCare, aimed to increase awareness and utilization of basic needs support services, particularly among upper-division and transfer students. The intervention included classroom presentations, faculty outreach, and distribution of informational materials, developed using evidence-based practices and community feedback. Following implementation, survey data from 65 students indicated that 83% intended to visit the Hub and 61% planned to share information with peers, demonstrating increased awareness and engagement. While the intervention did not fully address structural food insecurity, it effectively reduced a key barrier by increasing knowledge of available resources. Recommendations include expanding outreach to transfer and commuter students, engaging faculty as resource ambassadors, and continuing to collect student feedback to refine programming. Sustained outreach efforts may contribute to improved student well-being and retention.

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