It’s not about fixing people, it’s about fixing systems.
At the Center for Economic Justice and Action (CEJA), we are committed to community-engaged research and programming that alleviates poverty, reduces economic inequality, and advances the essential needs of all people.
What are “essential needs?”
The UC system defines “basic needs” as an ecosystem that ensures equitable access to essentials such as nutritious food, secure housing, healthcare, affordable transportation, personal hygiene resources, and emergency support for students with dependents.
The terms “basic needs” and “essential needs” are often used interchangeably and we use both terms on our website. However, we encourage using the term “essential needs” to emphasize their foundational importance to well-being, thriving, and student success.
Stay connected with us
Follow us on Instagram to get updates on events, research opportunities, and ways to get involved. Please contact ceja@ucsc.edu to join our mailing list and stay up-to-date on CEJA events, news, and opportunities.
Food, rest, exercise and student health (FRESH) study
In the Summer of 2023, we received a grant from the National Institute Health (NIH) that will expand our food security work. We are studying relationships among college students’ experiences of food insecurity and Life’s Essential 8, key influencers of cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Making a difference starts with us
To make a gift to the Center for Economic Justice and Action (CEJA), please visit UCSC’s secure website. We are grateful for your support!
Our history
We would not be where we are today without Richard Blum’s vision, founding gift, and our foundational years as UCSC’s Blum Center on Poverty, Social Enterprise, and Participatory Governance. To illuminate the center’s evolution, current mission, strengths, and initiatives, we relaunched as the Center for Economic Justice and Action in Fall of 2023.
News
Philanthropy in action: Alumna Roberta Gordon invests in students for Earth’s future
Roberta Gordon bridges science, law, and philanthropy for environmental progress
UC Santa Cruz-based center leads system-wide commitment to White House food security initiative
The Center for Economic Justice and Action (CEJA) at UC Santa Cruz will lead the University of California’s participation in the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities.
UC Santa Cruz will lead new systemwide basic needs consortium to bring together researchers and practitioners
UC Santa Cruz’s Blum Center on Poverty, Social Enterprise, and Participatory Governance will become the UC Santa Cruz Center for Economic Justice and Action, taking on a new leadership role in University of California basic needs efforts that enhance students’ access to food, housing, and other essential resources.