Single Stop Connects Southwest Students to Critical Support, Removing Barriers to Success

When classes, work, and family responsibilities collide, the stress of meeting basic needs can quietly derail even the most determined college student. At Southwest, a new resource is stepping in to remove those barriers, helping students stay focused on their education rather than the challenges outside the classroom.

Single Stop gives students a new pathway to stability, support and success by helping them address basic needs that can stand in the way of completing their education. Through Single Stop, Southwest continues to center students not just as learners, but as whole people — ensuring basic needs are met so academic goals remain within reach.

The free resource platform connects students to federal, state, on-campus, and community resources in a single, easy-to-use system. In as little as 15 minutes, students can be pre-screened for benefits that support their financial, educational, and personal well-being.

“This is designed to make a meaningful difference in their academic success and overall well-being,” said Ann Buchanan, director of Basic Needs Support and project director for Saluqi Cares. “It helps students quickly connect to critical support services so they can stay focused on school.”

Single Stop functions as a personal navigator for students, streamlining what can often be a confusing and time-consuming process. Through its federal and state benefit screener, students can determine potential eligibility for programs such as food assistance, health care, child care assistance, Medicaid, and tax credits without having to navigate multiple agencies on their own.

“That efficiency matters,” Buchanan said. “When students aren’t worried about whether they can afford food, health care, or other necessities, they have more time and energy to dedicate to their education.”

Beyond benefits screening, Single Stop also includes an interactive map of local community resources. Students can search for nearby food pantries, housing support, employment services, and other assistance that meets immediate needs. The platform is also being expanded to incorporate internal college resources, further strengthening the connection between students and available support.

Buchanan said the program reflects Southwest’s commitment to adapting in ways that uplift students and serve the community.

“Our ability to change and adapt to uplift our students and serve our community makes us unique,” she said, pointing to Single Stop as an example of that mission in action. “This is a resource that doesn’t just help the individual student — it can benefit their entire family.”

Students are encouraged to use Single Stop because the service is free, effective and accessible. Faculty and staff are also encouraged to refer students who may be experiencing challenges in meeting basic needs.

“Students should use this program because it helps, and it works,” Buchanan said. “Single Stop enhances the student experience, student support, and ultimately student success.”

Accessing the program is simple. Students can visit the college’s Single Stop webpage, complete the online application, and begin screening for benefits immediately. Single Stop staff also provide follow-up assistance to help confirm whether students successfully receive the support they qualify for.

“At Southwest, we want students to know they don’t have to navigate these challenges alone,” Buchanan said. “We’re here to help and to connect them with the resources they need to keep moving forward.”