Cal Poly Cares

Cal Poly is committed to creating an environment for all students to reach their full potential and thrive. 

Along this journey, many students are unable to afford expenses core to their ongoing success, including housing and meals, academic supplies and materials, personal care items, professional clothing and unplanned emergencies.

Our Cal Poly Foundation Board members have come together to support these students in their highest areas of need and created the Cal Poly Foundation Fund for Students. This fund provides awards to students through the Cal Poly Cares Grant program and is administered by the Student Affairs Division in collaboration with the Financial Aid Office.

Student Affairs partners throughout campus to create a comprehensive referral network to support students with critical and urgent needs. Faculty, staff, academic advisors, counselors, Campus Health & Wellbeing, Student Academic Services, Disability Resource Center, Cross Cultural Centers and department leaders throughout Cal Poly may refer students to the Cal Poly Cares Grant program by contacting the Dean of Students Office at 805-756-2472.

Apply for a Cal Poly Cares grant

For additional support, please contact:

Joy Pedersen, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Students
Phone: 805-756-2472
Email: jmpeders@calpoly.edu