The challenge of addressing student basic needs is persistent. Now, the scale, focus, and actionable impact of the Real College California Coalition (RCCC) survey are redefining the conversation. Through a Spark Grant, RCCC will amplify their efforts to gather data on food, housing, and financial insecurities among students at California’s community colleges. Two years ago, the survey gathered over 66,000 responses, marking a milestone in helping all students thrive. This year, we’re excited to see the survey and its impacts continue to grow.

An Innovative Approach to Addressing Student Basic Needs

The Real Experience of College Students survey stands out for its innovative approach to data collection and its focus on equity. By surveying tens of thousands of students from 88 community colleges, RCCC captures unprecedented insights into the struggles students face in meeting their basic needs. The survey goes beyond identifying problems—it tracks trends over time, allowing for a dynamic, real-time understanding of how the needs of students evolve.

RCC’s data highlights disparities across racial and socioeconomic lines. It allows colleges and policymakers to identify which student populations face the greatest challenges. The equity-focused approach is essential for creating interventions that are targeted and effective. By surveying students every two years, RCCC also ensures that the data it provides remains relevant and reflective of the most pressing issues students face at any given time.

“By collecting data in a way that highlights disparities, we’re not just identifying problems, we’re setting the stage for systemic change,” said Dr. Queena Hoang, Senior Program Manager for Student Basic Needs. “The Spark Grant allows RCCC to further expand their work and help colleges implement effective solutions.”

Scalability and Long-Term Impact

One key aspect of the RCCC survey is scalability. The survey’s methodology is designed to be easily adaptable to different institutions while maintaining consistency and prioritizing data quality. The scalability ensures that RCCC can expand the reach of its findings by extending the survey to additional colleges and students.

With each iteration, RCCC refines the survey to meet the evolving needs of students and institutions, fostering continuous improvement. The integration of professional development and advocacy equips colleges with the tools and knowledge needed to act on the data. Through this model, RCCC ensures that its impact will grow, offering a roadmap for a more inclusive, student-centered approach to addressing basic needs in higher education.

A Broader Impact on Student Basic Needs

In addition to its scalability, the survey’s findings are powerful tools for advocacy. They provide evidence that can inform decision-making at both the institutional and governmental levels. Ultimately, they will lead to better resource allocation, policy reforms, and the development of targeted interventions that help students succeed.

Additionally, RCCC’s collaborative approach fosters partnerships among colleges, advocacy groups, and policymakers. The partnerships with organizations such as the RP Group and the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office allow RCCC to amplify its reach, ensuring that the survey’s findings lead to concrete action. By working together, these organizations are creating a shared vision for a future where all students can succeed, free from the burden of unmet basic needs.

Moving Forward with a Vision for Change

RCCC is helping every student have the opportunity to thrive by providing colleges with the tools to implement data-driven solutions and advocating for systemic change. We look forward to sharing key findings from the 2025 survey!

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About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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