Nourishment & Essential Supports Team
Pantry Hours for 10/27/2025-10/31/2025
Watsonville A140 open ( Mon - Closed, Tues 10AM-1PM, Wed 12-3PM, Thurs - closed, Fri 9:30-1PM)
Hours are subject to change weekly, as we are under short staffed
Aptos 902 open ( Mon 9:30-11AM, Tues 12PM-4PM, Wed 11-2:00PM Thurs 9AM-11AM, Fri - closed)
Hours are subject to change weekly, as we are under short staffed
Welcome to the NEST
Second Harvest Food Bank - Fresh Market Distribution Dates for Watsonville
November 4th, November 19th, December 3rd from 11-12:30PM
Second Harvest Food Bank - Fresh Market Distribution Dates for Aptos
October 27th, November 3rd, November 17th, December 8th from 9:30AM-11AM
CalFresh Aptos 902 NEST
CalFresh and Medi-Cal reps from Santa Cruz County - schedule pending for Spring 2026
CalFresh Watsonville A140 NEST
Second Harvest Food Bank CalFresh Case Specialist on-site - schedule pending for Spring 2026
Our mission is to ensure that every student facing essential needs challenges has equal access to the resources they need to overcome those obstacles. We believe every student already possess the inner strengths they need to succeed, and we back them up with individualized support as unique as they are.
For qualifying students, our services can include:
NEST Neighborhood housing rental board, county and community referrals, and grants for eligible students
Free Food Pantry and Fresh Markets on both campuses
One-time grants for technology, textbooks, transportation and utilities (submit Request for Assistance Form to see if you are eligible)
Individualized strength-based, trauma-informed care
Housing and financial empowerment support group and workshops
Snack and hygiene products
Off-Campus Resources
Local Housing Assistance Services and Programs
Transportation | Transporte
Marie Riggs - Human Services Student
PVSS Transitional Housing Program
Emergency Shelter & Transitional Housing Program for Eligible Female-Identifying Single/Parenting Students
Low income-based rent
Free utilities, including Wi-Fi and parking
Supportive PVSS Case Managers with financial empowerment coaches
Savings program
Accepts Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) program, also known as “Section 8”
Contact Monica Mendenhall at momenden@cabrillo.edu or 831-477-3382
Santa Cruz County Resources | Recursos del Condado de Santa Cruz
Trained specialists will match your needs to local services ⎯ including recovery resources. It’s free, confidential and available 24 hours a day in more than 150 languages. Text your zip code to 898-211 or visit 211santacruzcounty.org