Access to nutritious meals, clean showers and laundry facilities, safe housing, and emotional support are essential to a successful and enjoyable college experience. Explore this page to see the resources available for students struggling to cover their most basic needs and email healthpromotion@pratt.edu for assistance.
- Pratt has resources to help students with inconsistent access to nutritious, filling meals. See our Food Insecurity page for information about food pantries, the courtesy meals program, our campus produce market, and more resources in our area. https://www.pratt.edu/administrative-departments/student-affairs/health-wellness/resilience-wellness-and-well-being-center/food-insecurity/
- New York City has a wealth of resources for anyone experiencing food insecurity. Check this link from Food Bank to find a food pantry or food access program in your area: https://www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/
- Don’t know what to eat for optimal nutrition? See this Healthy Eating 101 guide from Healthline or email the campus dietitian from Chartwells; erika.deminno@compass-usa.com
- Free hot showers available to students, faculty, and staff in the ARC; https://goprattgo.com/sports/2019/2/21/arc-membership-hours
- The Pantries often stock soap, razors, deodorant, and toilet paper for students. Email thepantry@pratt.edu to inquire about availability or request an item.
- Free washers and dryers are available in the residence halls for students living on campus and the pantries often stock laundry detergent pods for any student who cannot afford to buy their own. Email thepantry@pratt.edu to inquire about availability.
- Free menstrual pads and tampons are available in dispensers located on the Brooklyn and Manhattan campuses. See the list here: Menstrual Product Locations
- ResLife helps students living on campus navigate conflict with roommates, request maintenance to improve room standards, and create community on campus. https://www.pratt.edu/administrative-departments/student-affairs/residential-life-and-housing/
- Moving off campus? Know your rights so you can avoid scams, unsafe conditions, and hidden fees.
- Tenant rights in NYC; https://www.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/tenants-rights-and-responsibilities.page
- Renters are no longer required to pay brokers’ fees. You do not have to pay any money to see an apartment. Report illegal brokers’ fees collections here: https://portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-03665
- NYC housing can be difficult to find. Avoid scams so you don’t lose money or time during your search: https://dos.ny.gov/news/consumer-alert-new-york-department-states-division-consumer-protection-reminds-new-yorkers-3
- Discounts
- Discounted Metrocards for students living on the Brooklyn campus and enrolled in a major primarily located at PMC can be retrieved from the Student Affairs office at PMC (7th floor). Pratt students travelling on NJ transit also qualify for a discount; https://www.pratt.edu/resources/student-transportation-information/ Email involvement@pratt.edu for more information on either option.
- How to use the MTA
- The MTA is phasing out the use of Metrocards in favor of the OMNY system on January 1st, 2026. Learn more about how to get the most out of OMNY here: https://omny.info/
- Biking Safely
- Biking can be a fun, affordable and health promoting way to traverse the city but we want to encourage you to bike smart. The Department of Transportation has biking safety tips, bike lane maps, and events to support bikers in the five boroughs: https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/bicyclists/infrastructureconditions.shtml
- Struggles within one’s mental, physical, and spiritual well-being can negatively affect the ability to stay in school, maintain relationships, or balance the responsibilities during this phase of life. Pratt has resources to support students who feel their basic needs are not being met.
- Managing your money is an essential skill that can help you navigate an emergency and build a more stable future. See these resources from the JED Foundation: https://jedfoundation.org/resource/financial-management-resources-for-college-students/ and contact the Resilience, Wellness, and Well-Being Center for more information rww@pratt.edu.
- Pratt has resources available for those struggling to afford their basic needs, art/school supplies, and tuition, as well as those in need of emergency funds. Contact these individuals and their offices to learn more.
- Justin Kelley; Dean of Students
- Martha Cedarholm; Director of Student Support and Advocacy
- Jasmine Cuffie, Associate Director; Health Promotion and Well-Being Specialist
- Pratt Student Financial Services
With gratitude to the generous donors for their support of these programs. To donate, click here: https://www.pratt.edu/giving/