COVID-19: Additional Help for Finances, Food and Families

Columbia students may review these resources for help with finances, food and services for families with children in New York City and for veterans and service members.

Dean of Students

Students who need emergency financial assistance should contact the Dean of Students or Student Affairs office in your school.  

Columbia iGrad

If you are concerned about how your personal finances, career or education could be affected during this period, visit Columbia.iGrad.com. The platform offers interactive, personalized financial education and newly added information on COVID-19, and it’s free for all Columbia students.

NYC Human Resources

New York City provides cash assistance to NYC residents who meet certain eligibility criteria. See the NYC Human Resources Administration website for more information.

The Food Pantry at Columbia

The Food Pantry at Columbia provides nonperishable food to students experiencing food insecurity. New operating hours are Tuesdays and Fridays, 3-6 p.m. in JJ's Place (lower level of John Jay Hall). Write to [email protected]

New York City also has a number of programs to assist people who are in need, including: 

FoodHelp.NYC

Visit FoodHelp.NYC to apply for food assistance benefits and see a map of food pantries and community kitchens.  

For information about locations and hours to get immediate help with food in New York City, call 866-888-8777 or 311.

Grab-and-Go Meals

In New York City, students, families, and adults (without kids/students in the school system) can pick up breakfast, lunch and after-school meals at any city school facility. Get details

God's Love We Deliver

Apply to receive meal deliveries from God’s Love We Deliver, a nonprofit serving people who are living with chronic illnesses or disabilities. 

Remote Learning Device Lending Program

The New York City Department of Education is lending digital learning devices so K-12 students may learn at home. Request a device

VFW’s Unmet Needs Grant

The VFW’s Unmet Needs grant offers emergency cash assistance to qualifying veterans, members of the military and their families. Get details.

Housing Assistance for Veterans

Visit NYC Veterans Alliance for help with housing, groceries or periodic check-ins, or call 929-265-4549.