A behind view of a female student walking with a backpack on and holding books.CHICAGO — With support from State Senator Mattie Hunter, National Louis University and Roosevelt University will receive over $381,000 to address student homelessness and help provide necessities many students lack.

“Students are more likely to succeed if they can focus on their schooling rather than finding their next meal or a place to sleep,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “With this funding, National Louis University and Roosevelt University will be better equipped to help students in need.”

The End Student Housing Insecurity grants were awarded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education and will be used to support ongoing efforts to address systemic causes of student homelessness and basic-needs insecurity. National Louis University and Roosevelt University are among the 10 institutions chosen by the IBHE.

The investments — $199,908 to National Louis University and $182,499 to Roosevelt University — are one step in the state’s higher education plan to close equity gaps for students. The grants were awarded by a competitive application process, based on the school’s ability to address primary causes of homelessness and basic-needs insecurity, and to help students overcome barriers to graduation.

“Students already face immense pressure while going to school,” said Hunter. “These grants represent our state’s continued commitment to ensuring no student has to worry about basic necessities while pursuing their academic dreams.”

View more information about the End Student Housing Insecurity grants.