Basic Needs Symposium

CWS is excited to introduce our 2026 Basic Needs Symposium, an expansion of our annual Basic Needs Resource Fair. This comprehensive, day-long event is dedicated to tackling the topic of basic needs insecurity on campus and in our community.
Join us to learn from our community presenters, hear directly from EWU students about their experiences, and engage with our resource fair featuring 20 local organizations offering basic needs support including financial assistance, peer counseling, and legal aid.
Join us May 19th in the PUB NCR from 10AM-3PM
Symposium Schedule
Resource Fair | 10AM-3PM
Investigating Basic Needs at EWU
Join us for an overview of statistics unique to our campus, learn about the resources available to students, and get your questions answered by our very own Basic Needs Navigator.
Accessing Tools for College and Beyond
Hear from disability access providers about how to advocate for yourself and others, how to access their many programs, and the accommodations they can offer for college students.
Cultural Community Support
Learn about this organization’s approach to service, with particular focus on their LUNAA program–offering leadership opportunities, financial aid, mentorship, and more.
Know Your Rights
Hear from local lawyer Hannah Swenson on what to look for in your lease, understanding tenant vs. landlord responsibilities, and preventing eviction.
Public Transit 101
Hear from travel specialists about how to use the Spokane Transit Authority system efficiently and make the most of your FREE FARE!
Navigating Needs Insecurity – Student Panel with Q&A
Join us to hear from EWU students about their experience with Basic Needs Insecurity while pursuing higher education.
Basic Needs and the Whole Student
Dr. Tricia Hughes, Director of Counseling and Wellness Services at EWU, will present information on our Campus Wellbeing Initiative and its intersection with basic needs insecurity.
