West Hills Coalinga holds Falcon Essentials Center grand opening

The event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by the distribution of Falcon Essentials Kits from 10:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. These kits include pantry basics such as pasta, bread, grains, pre-packaged snacks, produce, water, and hygiene products.

The Falcon Essentials Center is grant-funded through Basic Needs funds, ensuring sustained support for students facing food insecurity. Products and supplies are ordered to keep the center well-stocked and accessible to those in need.

"At West Hills College Coalinga, we believe that student success goes hand in hand with meeting their basic needs,” said Dr. Carla Tweed, President at West Hills College Coalinga. “The Falcon Essentials Center is more than a resource hub; it's a testament to our commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every student can focus on their education without the burden of food insecurity. This initiative aims to build a stronger sense of community and ensure that every student feels supported on their academic journey."

To further support the holistic well-being of students, an in-person mental health therapist is available in the Falcon Essentials Center. Mental health services can be accessed through the Falcon Essentials Center application, available at https://westhillscollege.com/coalinga/student-life/food-and-basic-needs/.

"We are proud to provide essential resources to our students," said Pedro Garcia, WHCC Coordinator of Student Support Programs and Engagement. "The Falcon Essentials Center is not just about addressing basic needs; it's about creating a welcoming space for our students to thrive academically and personally."

West Hills College Coalinga is committed to collecting data to refine and improve the process of student assistance. WHCC students are permitted to visit the Falcon Essentials Center one time per day, Monday through Friday.