The Valera NEST

COMING 2025–2026*
This renovated space will address basic needs, promoting synergy, collaboration and partnership between various campus resources while normalizing the experience of students who seek supportive resources.
The Valera NEST Construction Updates
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¿ì»îÁÖÐÔÏ¢ Food Pantry
- Food and toiletries, dry goods, produce and refrigerated food
- Food assistance programs (i.e. CalFresh)
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Cold Food Lockers
Storage for:
- Food pantry orders after pickup
- Meals for eating while on campus all day
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Matty’s Closet
- On-campus professional clothing resource for students
- Tips on professional dress for job interviews and internships

Ila’s Kitchen
- Lounge area, seating and tables
- Food preparation stations including microwaves and hot water dispensers for food warming

Basic Needs Office
Care Coordinators assist students with resources related to:
- Food Insecurity
- Emergency Housing
- Financial Support
- Wrap-around services
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Special thanks to our generous donors Milt and Debbie Valera, Rick and Barbara Levy, and the ¿ì»îÁÖÐÔÏ¢ Foundation. We also thank Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, ¿ì»îÁÖÐÔÏ¢ President Erika D. Beck and the ¿ì»îÁÖÐÔÏ¢ leadership team who were instrumental in making this project a reality. This project is a ¿ì»îÁÖÐÔÏ¢ campus partnership with the University Student Union (USU), Division of Student Affairs, Office of Basic Needs, Career Center and the College of Health and Human Development.
*Formerly known as the Basic Needs Suite. Schedule and images are conceptual and subject to change.