About Us

The Basic Needs office at CSUN utilizes a holistic, student-centered approach to providing students with basic needs support (food, shelter, clothing) and eliminating these barriers to their academic success. We are dedicated to empowering students to persist and thrive in their educational journey and realize their goal of graduation. We do this by providing advocacy, guidance, and connection to resources that facilitate food and housing stability. We are equally committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment within the CSUN community through outreach, education, and innovative partnerships with campus colleagues that contribute to a sense of well-being and belonging.


Headshot if Maria Elizondo

Maria Elizondo 
Director

Email: maria.elizondo@csun.edu
Phone: 818-677-6331
Office Location: The Valera NEST


Headshot of Christel Bowen

Christel Bowen
Food Programs Care Coordinator

Email: christel.bowen@csun.edu
Office Location:  CSUN Food Pantry at The Valera NEST


Headshot of Nancy Lemus

Nancy Lemus
Housing Stability Care Coordinator

Email: nancy.lemus@csun.edu
Phone: (818) 677-6321
Office Location: The Valera NEST


Dianita Saucedo-Rodriguez

Dianita Saucedo-Rodriguez
Housing Stability Care Coordinator

Email: dianita.saucedo-rodriguez@csun.edu
Phone: (818) 677-6321
Office Location: The Valera NEST


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Karla Gonzalez
Special Projects Analyst

Email: karla.gonzalez@csun.edu
Office Location: USU Sol Center, Room 306