Personal & Educational Success Resources

Students at OCC may experience life challenges that impact their ability to succeed in the classroom. Whether it be financial struggles, family and job responsibilities, health needs, or other factors, life challenges can sometimes get in the way of achieving your academic and professional goals. Below are some resources to consider, to find support that allows you to focus more on academic achievement.

• Speak with an OCC Counselor for assistance with referrals.
• OCC Scholarships and Financial Aid provide financial support to students.
• Career development and job resources can be found via Career Services and Cooperative Education, Counseling, Work Study positions, Michigan Works! job assistance, and the MiTalent jobs database.

Nearly all students can benefit from lower-cost textbooks and technology:

• Students and instructors are eligible for free Microsoft Office 365 software, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Microsoft Teams, and classroom tools. You will need to enter your OCC email address. OER (Open Educational Resources) – Open textbooks are free online learning materials. Some OCC classes may include an OER textbook, when possible.
• Discounted rates on additional software are available to students enrolled in specific courses.
• Additional need-based technology assistance for those that qualify  ***Free and Low-Cost Internet Access from AT&T Access
• COMCAST - COVID-19 Response
• Low-Cost Internet and Computer – Apply online or call (855) 846-8376.
• Cell Phones: Assurance Wireless,   (888) 898-4888, Safelink Wireless, (800) 723-3546
• The Michigan Public Service Commission and Connect Michigan, in cooperation with other organizations has published an interactive map of Free Drive-up Hotspots in Michigan.

• Oakland County - OLHSA website (Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency) (800) 482-9250, Offers a wide range of services for immediate and long-term needs
• United Way 2-1-1 - Call 211, click for Live Chat, email, or search the database.

• Community Partner Locator - MI-Bridges - Need to enter full address to search.
• The Pink Fund - Provides financial support to help meet basic needs for breast cancer patients.

• HOPE Shelter – Emergency Shelter in Pontiac, phone (248) 499-7345
• Lighthouse of Oakland County – Emergency Food, Utilities, Housing in Pontiac, phone (248) 920-6000

• Open Door Outreach Center – Emergency Services in Waterford Township, phone (248) 360-2930

• C.A.R.E.S of Farmington Hills - Community Action Resources Empowerment Services, phone (248) 882-7800
• Salvation Army – Meals, Financial and Seasonal Assistance in Farmington Hills, phone (248) 477-1153

• Open Hands Food Pantry and Garden: phone 248 546 1255. Located inside St. John's Episcopal Church, 26998 Woodward Avenue at 11 Mile
• Royal Oak First United Methodist Church: Lunch Program (Mon. through Fri. 10:30 to 11:30am) and Little Free Pantry (always available).  Located across from the OCC Royal Oak Campus on 7th Street between Washington and Lafayette at 320 W. 7th Street
• Common Ground Sanctuary – 24/7 Resource and Crisis Assistance, Call or Text (800) 231-1127
• Royal Oak Public Library and Oakland County Times: Resources for Those in Need 2020

• South Oakland Shelter – Emergency Shelter and Housing Help in Lathrup Village, phone (248) 809-3773