Temple University is well-positioned to become the first comprehensive essential needs service center and the national leader in utilizing a coordinated care model, through the essential needs lens, to drive student enrollment and outcomes.
The new 26,000 sq. ft. Christopher and Julie Barnett Essential Needs Hub will occupy the former Temple University Bookstore location in the Howard Gittis Student Center in the center of campus.
A Multi-Phased Approach
Phase One: Transition space - now open!
- Temple University's Bookstore moved out in August 2025
- Transition space construction began immediately
- The Cherry Pantry remains in current location
- Transition space opened during Homecoming & Family Weekend in October
Phase Two: Permanent space - Fall 2026 opening
- Construction on remainder of Hub continues behind temporary walls
- Once staff move from the transition space to the permanent space, the Cherry Pantry construction will begin
