In California, an increasing number of college students are facing housing insecurity leading to a profound impact on their academics.
According to the latest California Student Aid Commission analysis, 35 percent of students surveyed experienced one or more conditions of housing insecurity.
Over the last 30 days, 21 percent of respondents said that they did not pay the full amount of a gas, oil, or electricity bill while another 10 percent said they underpaid or did not pay their rent at all.
Most of those who experienced housing insecurity reported unstable living conditions, which included the need to move frequently.
“The main struggle is housing, since paying a huge amount for rent is very challenging. It also causes distraction, stress and inability to focus on studies,” a student was quoted in the report.
The survey found students older than 22, females, African-Americans, Hispanics and those with dependents as most susceptible to experiencing housing insecurity, which leads to lower completion, persistence, and credit attainment.
Also, black and Hispanic students are disproportionately affected by homelessness. 38 percent of overall homeless students are Hispanics, followed by 23 percent of black students, 19 percent whites and 8 percent of Asians.
“It’s been tough and hard to eat balanced meals and have a stable place to live. I had to couch surf for several weeks and sleep in my car due to lack of money,” a student from East Bay said.
Nationally, 46 percent of students at two-year community colleges and 36 percent at four-year colleges experienced some degree of housing insecurity during the past year.