“Hustling for Every Dime”: Resource Needs of Campus Support Program Practitioners Serving Students with Experience in Foster Care

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Abstract This qualitative study explored the resource needs identified by practitioners working in campus support programs (CSPs) serving students who have experienced foster care (SEFC). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with supplementary demographic surveys ( N = 16). Resource needs were identified at the practitioner, CSP, and SEFC levels. Practitioners emphasized the need for onboarding to university processes and the CSP, training about child welfare and higher education to fill knowledge gaps, clear guidance about program development and role expectations, supportive supervision, and connections with other CSPs and practitioners. Essential resources for CSPs included access to student information, programming space, increased staffing, connections with internal and external partners, and sustainable funding. Lastly, SEFC needed funding and scholarships beyond a tuition waiver/ETV, housing, and professional/personal development opportunities. Findings highlight the importance of strengthening campus infrastructures, institutional resources, and support. Implications are provided for higher education professionals, program developers, and practitioners seeking to strengthen CSPs for SEFC.