Care Center

No judgement. No barriers. Just care.

Your Basic Needs Support Hub at Clayton State University

The Care Center, an extension of Student Care & Support, is a welcoming, student-centered resource hub dedicated to supporting your everyday needs, so you can focus on thriving—not just surviving—through college. Whether you’re picking snacks, hygiene items, clothing, or simply taking a moment to rest, the Care Center is here for all Lakers.

We believe that meeting students’ fundamental needs is essential for academic success and personal growth. Through accessible programs, peer-informed services, and connections to resources, the Care Center helps Lakers stay enrolled, engaged, and empowered.

Mission

To reduce barriers to student success by providing compassionate, student-centered support for basic needs. The CARE Center empowers students to focus on their academic and career goals by ensuring their foundational needs are met.

Commitment

At the Care Center, we know college can be tough and even tougher when you're worried about food, clothes, or taking care of your family. We're here to make sure you don’t have to face those challenges alone.

Whether you need a snack, support with benefits like SNAP, help as a student parent, or just a quiet place to recharge, we’ve got your back. When your basic needs are met, it’s easier to focus on your goals and we’re committed to helping you get there.

You belong here.

You deserve support.

We’re here for you.

What We Offer

No judgment. No barriers. Just care.

Laker Care Pantry

A food pantry offering shelf-stable groceries, grab-and-go snacks, and fresh produce and perishable items when available. Whether you're planning meals for the week or grabbing a bite between classes, we’ve got you covered. The Laker Care Pantry is located in Edgewater Hall.

Nessie’s Necessities

Our hygiene closet provides free personal care products like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, menstrual supplies, and more—because you deserve to feel your best.

The Cozy Corner

A quiet, comfortable space for students to rest, reflect, or recharge throughout the day. The Cozy Corner also provides a private, calming area for those who need time and space for feeding or pumping.

Loch Swap Shop

A sustainable, community-driven exchange of gently used everyday clothing and small household items. Perfect for students looking for casual wear, seasonal clothes, or essentials for daily living.

Gowns for Grad

Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating. Through this initiative, students can borrow caps and gowns at no cost—because crossing the stage shouldn’t come with a financial barrier.

SNAP Assistance

One-on-one support to help you navigate eligibility and apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. We're here to walk through the process with you.

Student Parent Hub with Parent’s Loched-In

A dedicated space for student parents to access family resources, and support designed to help balance college and parenting life.

The CARE Center is your space. Whether you need support, a resource, or just a quiet corner—we’re here to help you keep moving forward.

Support Services

Lakers Care and Share

Lakers Care & Share is a cross-campus advisory council developed to help students who are struggling with food and housing insecurity and having other essential needs.

Explore Lakers Care and Share

Family Resources

Family Resources is a landing page to assist and support parenting students as they navigate through their academic journey.

View Available Resources

Elaine Student Emergency Fund

The purpose of the student emergency fund is to provide short-term assistance and support to enrolled students experiencing financial challenges due to personal hardships.

Support Students in Need

Laker Care Pantry

The Laker Care Pantry offers a variety of perishable and nonperishable items like frozen meals and pantry staples. It's free, easy to access, and open to all students who could use a little extra support.

About Laker Care Pantry

GiveNow

Want to Donate to the Student Emergency Fund? Giving options are available year round.

Give to Support Students

Loch Swap Shop

The Loch Swap Shop is a free campus resource where students can donate or pick up gently used clothing, dorm items, and school supplies. It’s a great way to save money, reduce waste, and support fellow Lakers!

Visit Loch Swap Shop

Donations

Interested in Donating to the Care Center?

The Care Center accepts donations year-round. Interested individuals, departments, and student groups can support the Care Center in several ways

DONATE FOOD, TOILETRIES, AND HYGIENE ITEMS
List of items needed
Donations can be dropped off at the Care Center during operating hours at Edgewater Hall Suite 245.
We are unable to accept dented cans or crushed boxes, any used or opened containers, expired items or food items without expiration dates, large commercial bags of items (rice, grains).
DONATE BY USING THE AMAZON WISH LIST FOR LAKER CARE PANTRY
Amazon Wish List and ship to the following address:
Laker Care Pantry
2000 Clayton State Boulevard
Edgewater Hall Suite 245
Attn: Care Center
Morrow, GA 30260-0285
HOST A DONATION DRIVE BENEFITING THE CARE CENTER
Let us know when you will host your donation drive, and we will be happy to assist with the pick up and/or transport of the items to the pantry.
MAKE A MONETARY CONTRIBUTION
Every penny counts, and we appreciate any amount you can give! Please bring cash, checks, or money orders to the Care Center, Edgewater Hall Suite 245 ATTN: Care Center
VOLUNTEER
The Care Center depends on the generous volunteers lending a helping hand. Volunteer sign-ups go out on a monthly basis.

Contact Information

Care Center

Edgewater Hall Suite 245

(678) 466-5585

Email the Care Center