Find Help Beyond Campus

At UML Strive, we understand that meeting your basic needs often requires support beyond what is available on campus. This page connects students to community organizations and local resources that can provide access to food, housing, and other essential needs. Whether you are facing an unexpected challenge or looking for ongoing support, these resources are available to help you navigate difficult situations and stay focused on achieving your academic goals. We encourage you to explore the resources below and reach out to UML Strive if you need assistance determining which services may be the best fit for your needs.

The Wish Project services the Greater Lowell Area, Lawrence, and Merrimack Valley. It provides support in areas such as furniture, clothing, and any items related to basic needs. The organization also has a Thrift Shop in North Chelmsford. The Thrift Shop provides discounted clothing and accessory items, and all proceeds go back toward the many initiatives through the organization.    

Tailored For Success, Inc. (TFS) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to assisting economically disadvantaged women, men, and youth with job resources. The Career Closet is a location, and guests can shop free of charge for gently used clothing by appointment only. For more information, please visit their website.   

Local Food Pantries

Open Pantry of Greater Lowell provides short-term food assistance in the Greater Lowell area. Originally, the open pantry was designed for those who did not qualify for any other assistance program, becoming a last resort for those in need. They provide nutritious and culturally inclusive food up to twice a month.

Central Food Ministry was created through The Lutheran Church of the Savior, and they offer a 5-day supply of food and supplies to individuals and families every 30 days. In addition to the commonly donated canned items, they also provide fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meat.

Catholic Charities Merrimack Valley not only provides emergency food assistance, but also connects those in need of additional resources to their respective organizations, for example health, housing, and translation services.

Dwelling House of Hope provides a food pantry that is open weekly, where prepackaged boxes of food are available for pickup every week. The church receives donations from Stop & Shop, Trader Joe's, and Walmart to help serve those in need.

Mobile Food Markets

Mill City Grows is a community organization focused on helping people in need access locally grown produce. They also sponsor local mobile markets and work with individuals and families on SNAP eligibility.

Mobile Market through the Greater Boston Food Bank: Families are welcome to come and shop from a diverse selection of fresh produce, dairy products, and high-protein items.

Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Many students are eligible for SNAP benefits but don’t know about it. SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps, provides a monthly benefit to buy nutritious foods. To get SNAP, you must be low-income and be a U.S. citizen or legal noncitizen (restrictions apply). Eligibility for SNAP benefits depend on financial and nonfinancial criteria.

Women, Infants, and Children Nutrition Program (WIC) is a federal assistance program to provide nutritious food to low-income pregnant, breastfeeding or non-breastfeeding postpartum mothers and children younger than 5 years old. They also educate the public about healthy eating and help with health care referrals. WIC benefits can be used at participating grocery stores. There is a list of locations that accept WIC on the WIC website.