OCC, MDHHS Partner to Support Students Essential Needs

College students who need help with food, childcare, stable housing, medical bills and other basic needs to succeed in school now have easier access to services at OCC.

Oakland Community College (OCC) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have teamed up to ensure students have easier access to resources that support their success.  

MDHHS
OCC and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have teamed up to ensure students have easier access to resources that support their success.

“Since we launched this program, most of the requests have been for cash assistance to pay for utilities and transportation, rent and food assistance,” said Robin Ford, Eligibility Specialist with MDHHS. “Many OCC students are employed while attending school so they can’t work as much to get ahead: they are trying to balance both. We’ve been able to help.” 

According to OCC Counselor Kristine Evans many students don’t realize they qualify to receive assistance.  

“Having this service at OCC means more students can get the assistance they need without having to travel throughout the county, and they can fit an appointment around their class schedule,” she said. “If any of our students need help making this connection, OCC counselors are happy to assist them to get started.” 

Information sessions are being held during the first week of March to learn how MDHHS specialists can help. If you are a current OCC student, fast-track the process by completing this intake form. The form takes less than 3 minutes to complete.  

Informational sessions 

Dedicated coordinators are here to help you succeed. RSVP today to attend one of these online sessions:

  • March 4, Noon-1 p.m.
  • March 5, 4-5 p.m. 

During these sessions, learn about MDHHS programs that can assist you in accomplishing your educational goals including: Food Assistance, Child Care, Cash Assistance, State Emergency Relief and Healthcare/Medical Services. 

Get help in-person, on campus and online 

MDHHS specialists are available for OCC students Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 Learn more about OCC Student-Centered Assistance. 

About OCC  

Oakland Community College offers more than 80 degree and certificate programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training and expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu 

 

 Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | 248.341.2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu