While one can try to dismiss these alarming numbers as pandemic-based complications, a more definitive reason is the rising cost of rent in the U.S. Prices jumped 6.3% from the summer of 2021 to 2022, the highest year-over-year increase in more than three decades, according to Temple University’s Hope Center for College, Community and Justice. It’s not shaping up to be any better for 2023. Rent in January from 2022 to 2023 rose 8.68%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With skyrocketing living expenses, students’ basic needs will be more challenging to meet.

State solutions to meeting basic needs

Kentucky

The Kentucky Student Success Collaborative has formed an action network to study and audit the state’s 49 postsecondary education institutions. The collaborative comprises 47 members leading the state’s higher education institutions, government and education-focused nonprofits. The research will serve state policymakers’ decision-making when increasing students’ access to public benefits.

Instant Insights /

These college programs are helping students afford basic needs amid skyrocketing rent

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