Problem

Right now, our Student Health Center is running out of funding. The student health fee has remained $21 for a long time, while the cost of medical supplies, counseling services, and basic resources continues to rise. Since 2020, our Vice President has worked hard to secure grants to fill the gap—but those funds were only temporary and are now running out.

Without new funding, the Health Center’s hours will be reduced, and many essential services may be cut, leaving students without easy access to care. The situation has become so critical that the center can no longer afford basic itemslike menstrual pads and tampons—resources that many students rely on every day.

This is more than a budget issue; it’s about student well-being, dignity, and equity. Without proper funding, the health and safety of our campus community are at risk.

Solution

To address this problem, the college is proposing a small increase in the student health fee—from $21 to $27. This additional six dollars may seem minor, but it will have a significant impact on the quality and availability of health services for every student on campus. With this increase, the Health Center will be able to restore its full operating hours, maintain vital medical and mental health services, and continue providing free health essentials, including menstrual products, Narcan, and wellness resources.

More importantly, this increase will help ensure equity in healthcare access across campus. Every student deserves access to safe, confidential, and affordable health services, regardless of background or financial situation. The Health Center is not just a building—it’s a lifeline that supports physical health, mental wellness, and academic success.

Investing in our Health Center means investing in the success, safety, and well-being of our entire campus community. Together, we can make sure that no student has to go without the care, support, or dignity they deserve.

For more information and updates on the Student Health Center’s services, please visit sjcc.edu/student-health-services.

Benefits

Raising the health fee will bring immediate and long-term benefits to the student body and the campus as a whole.

Expanded Access: More students will have access to affordable medical care, counseling, and wellness resources without worrying about limited hours or reduced services.
Improved Mental Health Support: Restoring funding ensures that counseling and mental health programs remain available and equitable for all students.
Better Preventive Care: Regular screenings, immunizations, and health education programs will continue to help prevent illness and promote long-term well-being.
Health Equity: Increased funding allows the Health Center to continue serving diverse student populations, including those with limited access to outside healthcare.
Student Dignity and Support: Restocking menstrual products, hygiene items, and basic health supplies helps students feel cared for, respected, and supported on campus.
Campus Wellness and Success: A healthier campus means higher student engagement, attendance, and overall success rates.

This fee increase is not just an investment in the Health Center—it’s an investment in our students’ health, safety, and academic success. By supporting this change, we ensure that the Health Center continues to be a place of care, equity, and compassion for everyone on campus.

Investing in our Health Center means investing in the well-being and future of our entire college community. Together, we can make sure that no student has to go without the care, support, or dignity they deserve.