Nate Little

Hey Aggies! It’s Nate.

I’m a second-year history and political science major and for the past year I've served as an ASUCD Senator.

But the job is not finished. UC Davis reports that 46% of undergraduate students face food insecurity. The Middle Class Scholarship was cut in half by the state. Federal food assistance is shrinking.

Now more than ever, the basic needs services that our most vulnerable students rely on to survive are under threat. ASUCD has to make cuts this year, and the current proposed budget calls for 10% cuts across the board, including basic needs units like The Pantry, Housing Services, and Aggie Reuse.

Cuts are unavoidable. Cutting the services that keep students fed, housed, and clothed is not.

1. Prevent all basic needs units from this year's budget cuts.

My top priority if elected is to protect all basic needs units from this year’s cuts. The senate has final say over the budget, and the authority to prevent these changes. As senator I will make the case to the table that basic needs deserve protection during this budget cycle. I’ll bring students who rely on these services into budget conversations, because the senate listens when the people affected are in the room.

2. CalFresh Advising Expansion

As of June 1st, many more UC Davis undergraduates may qualify for CalFresh, which can mean up to $306 a month for groceries. I plan to partner with Aggie Compass to expand the number of case advisors and county workers who provide assistance with CalFresh applications. If I could ask my fellow students to do only one thing, it would be this: CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR CALFRESH! Thousands of students could benefit.

3. Basic Needs Outreach Events

Lastly, I promise to host events that will bring in donations and spread awareness for basic needs. Free clothing swaps, food drives, and a return of donations for TAPS citations will help keep the Pantry and Aggie Reuse stocked. Making sure students are aware of these services is half the battle, and one ASUCD can do much at. Too many students who qualify never ask for help, so these events will lower the barrier between them and the resources they deserve.

4. Why I’m running again.

I’m running because I refuse to let ASUCD compromise on Basic Needs. The apathy toward what are, without argument, the most valuable services ASUCD provides is disturbing. It’s what caught my eye last year, when I stood outside the MU with a sign asking why ASUCD spends $7,000 of student fees on senate meeting food. Students stopped to talk, and with their support I eliminated the budget and reallocated it to the pantry. That win belongs to the students, and it’s why I know this fight is worth continuing. I won’t stop until institutional measures are put into place that will protect basic needs beyond my term.

If this sounds like the representation you wish to see at the table, vote STFU starting November 2nd!