Comprehensive student services are available to PURCH students through UMass Chan Medical School's Office of Student Affairs, including academic advising, disability accommodations, financial support, healthcare and wellness services, and student mistreatment complaint handling.
Student Resources
These resources are available for students for food, healthcare, and financial assistance.
Student Coaching Program
The Student Coaching Program can help guide students who are having difficulty transitioning to a new location or accessing resources.
They can provide individual guidance on all of the resources below. Their website also includes a number of PURCH/Springfield specific resources.
The Student Coaching Program is distinct from the Center for Academic Achievement and student counseling services and is run by Maria Garcia and Carla Delacruz Davila,
Food Resources
SNAP and WIC Benefits
Many students may qualify for food assistance through these programs.
Project Bread has a fairly easy-to-follow guide to help figure out eligibility and gives guidance on how to start the application process. For students in Springfield, the Food Bank of Western Mass offers assistance to sign up for SNAP.
The Office of Student Life has a resource page for those who wish to learn more.
The Food Bank of Western Mass
The Food Bank of Western Mass has food pantries with evening and weekend hours as well as a number of resources throughout the region.
MassHealth
Students who qualify for MassHealth can opt out of health coverage from UMass. This can be a fairly significant cost reduction.
MassHealth Choices provides an overview of the application process and available health plans. The Massachusetts state website has resources both for determining eligibility and for accessing assistance in enrolling.
Student Facility Fees Waiver
Students living in Springfield can waive their student facility fees for access to the gym and other Worcester-specific student resources.
This waiver request process is handled by Michele DeSeve in the Office of Student Affairs.
Brightwood House Mentors' Guide to Western Mass
Brightwood House mentors maintain a list of recommendations of activities, restaurants, and resources for PURCHies moving to, or hanging out, in Springfield and the wider western Massachusetts area.