Encouraging self-care among individuals is admirable, and it's crucial to recognize that self-care, in isolation, can often remain an aspiration rather than a consistent practice. It's in the embrace of community care that self-care becomes sustainable and transformative.

Basic needs go beyond being able to afford food; they’re defined by the Hope Center as including a student’s “access to nutritious and sufficient food; safe, secure, and adequate housing—to sleep, to study, to cook, and to shower; healthcare to promote sustained mental and physical well-being; affordable technology and transportation; resources for personal hygiene; and childcare and related needs.”