Department of Basic Needs
Every student deserves the essential resources to thrive academically, professionally, and personally
Saavi Banerjee
Director of Basic Needs
Saavi Banerjee is a senior studying Peace, War, and Defense and Philosophy. She is passionate about food insecurity and professional clothing access. She believes every student deserves to have their basic needs met so they can focus on their education, plan their career, and enjoy Carolina. She is from San Diego, but prefers the mountain, particularly at National Parks.
Contact: saavib@unc.edu
Our Mission
About the Department
The Department of Basic Needs is dedicated to ensuring every student at Carolina has the essential resources to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Any hardship impacting a student's ability to focus on education and development will be considered a basic need. This includes access to professional clothing, housing, menstrual products, contaminant-free water, food security and meal-related accommodations, and more.
Students' input is central to the department. Needs are assessed through campus-wide surveys and ongoing feedback to continually assess and address emerging needs.
Our Work
Current Initiatives
Carolina Closet
A rental system for students to access professional attire, such as suits, skirts, and dress pants. This initiative eliminates barriers to students' professional development.
Food Insecurity Coalition
Identifying student organizations working to alleviate hunger, encouraging joint efforts, and filling identified gaps in food access across campus.
Housing Initiatives
Working on access to appliances and other housing support to ensure students have safe and comfortable living conditions.
NAVVY Tool Partnership
Partnering with the Student Basic Needs Coalition to help students determine eligibility for government benefit programs, potentially accessing thousands of dollars for groceries.
Our Team
Department Staff
Kira Isenhart
Deputy Director
Staff Members: Chloe Johnson, Andrew Nguyen, Emily Alam, Olivia Doyoyo, Misha Logisa, Kira Heppe, Kaci Turnage, Mahip Sompura
Need More Support?
Explore our comprehensive Student Resources page for additional campus services.
View All Resources