Student Support Services

Overview: 
The Amendola Student cupboard provides free, nutritious and culturally-responsive food options to all Fresno State students. It is open daily, and students are able to choose from a variety of healthful foods and other essential items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, non-perishable canned and boxed items, dairy and non-dairy products and various protein options.

In 2023-2024, the Amendola Student Cupboard served 10,028 unique students and had 83,412 visits. From Fall 2021 to Fall 2024, we saw a tremendous increase from 10,224 to 31,934 student visits, and the demand continues to grow.  

We’re facing a funding shortfall at a time when student needs—especially for student parents—are growing. Inflation, rising costs, and budget reductions are making the situation more challenging.

Proposed Solution: 
Increased funding from the proposed student fee increase for the Amendola Student Cupboard could enhance the selection of nutritious food, provide more fruits and vegetables and enable the program to launch satellite “pop up” locations throughout campus. 

Note: We would not replace our donors with the additional funding, but rather, we would increase the selection and variety of foods we offer our students in order to meet growing need. Hence, we would continue to receive donations from Grocery Outlet, Metro Ministries: Food to Share Program, Bee Sweet Citrus, Starbucks, community and individual donors.

Rationale and Benefits: 
This funding could allow the Amendola Student Cupboard to double the number of students served to 20,000 unique students annually and improve the health, wellness, and academic achievements of our students. We would also continue to provide volunteer opportunities to students with disabilities from Target, Wayfinders and Fresno Unified, which provides valuable hands-on experiences for these groups.

In addition, increased funding would allow the Amendola Student Cupboard to deploy satellite locations throughout campus, ensuring that students have convenient access to nutritious foods throughout their daily routines. 

Overview: 
Bulldog Express is Fresno State’s free campus shuttle service for students. Originally launched in 2019, the service provided convenient transportation for all Fresno State students. However, it was put on pause during the COVID years (2020-2022) and, due to financial constraints, has not been reinstated.

Proposed Solution: 
Increased funding from the proposed student fee increase for Bulldog Express would provide the essential funding needed to bring Bulldog Express back to campus.

Rationale and Benefits: 
Over the past several years, many students have expressed a strong desire to bring back this free shuttle service. Relaunching Bulldog Express would improve parking accessibility and transportation options for students commuting to campus, by linking the Save Mart Center parking area to key locations across campus. It would also unify the campus with shuttle service running regularly throughout the day.  

Overview: 
The Center for Essential Needs provides all Fresno State students with equitable support to ensure that students have resources they need to thrive academically and personally. Essential needs are the foundation of well-being and include access to healthful food, safe and stable housing, medical care, technology, and transportation. 

In 2023-2024, the Center for Essential Needs served 900 students, providing critical resources such as food, toiletries, transportation, and mental health and medical assistance. Unhoused students or those at risk of homelessness can receive housing support, including financial assistance for dorm or rental fees, move-in costs, and other housing-related expenses. Technology assistance may cover the purchase of laptops or tablets, cell phone repairs, and access to Wi-Fi. The center is also experiencing a growing demand for these essential resources, particularly among the most vulnerable student populations, including student parents, those facing economic hardship, and former foster youth.

Proposed Solution: 
Increased funding from the proposed student fee increase for the Center for Essential Needs would provide added financial support, ensuring that more students can receive resources that improve academic and personal outcomes.

Rationale and Benefits: 
This funding could allow the Center for Essential Needs to double the number of students served to 1,800 annually and improve the physical and mental health of our students, their children and families. By addressing their unique challenges, we significantly increase their chances of successfully completing their degrees. This seeks to empower both students who have no other means and those who face the difficult trade-off between working to meet basic needs and dedicating themselves fully to their education. By removing this barrier, we enable them to pursue their studies fully and contribute their leadership and vision to our Valley and world.

Overview: 
The Cross Cultural and Gender Center is dedicated to providing all students—regardless of background—with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. National research shows that universities investing in culturally-responsive student support programs see higher persistence rates among underrepresented students. Additionally, culturally-affirming events and student engagement in educational initiatives enhance critical thinking, academic performance, and overall sense of belonging on campus. However, limited funding restricts the center’s ability to achieve its mission and expand opportunities for Fresno State students. 

Proposed Solution: 
Increased funding from the proposed student fee increase for the Cross Cultural and Gender Center would expand culturally-rich events and services for Fresno State students. Fresno State students would be better informed about the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that currently contributed to the dynamic energy of our Valley.  

Rationale and Benefits: 
An increased budget would directly benefit all Fresno State students with the following initiatives:
Expand leadership training, peer mentorship, and professional networking through CCGC, cultivating graduates who are not only career-ready but also socially responsible leaders in their communities.
Establish a centralized equity hub for underserved students, consolidating resources and  breaking down barriers that often prevent them from accessing critical support. The hub will integrate current support services under one accessible framework, offering seamless guidance, financial resources, and advocacy tailored to students’ specific needs.
Fund research and student-led initiatives that empower students to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Expand events that build community, connection and belonging by celebrating cultural heritage and affirming cultural identities. Such events will increase engagement among students with diverse backgrounds and serve as a national model for institutional excellence in fostering inclusive campus environments.