Every year, hundreds of students like my friends are charged fees ranging from $100-$200 just to remain in their campus residences during holiday breaks. For many, traveling home is not an affordable option, which leaves them with no choice but to pay these fees or face housing instability during a time meant for rest and rejuvenation.

Holiday breaks should be a time for students to recharge and prepare for the upcoming academic challenges, not a period of financial strain due to additional housing fees. Many of these students rely on academic environments for stability and safety throughout their education journey.

This issue isn't just about money; it's about providing a fair and supportive educational environment for all students. By reducing or eliminating these fees, universities can demonstrate their commitment to nurturing the well-being and success of their students.

Statistics indicate that more than 60% of college students face financial difficulties during their education, with housing costs being among the most significant burdens. Universities have a responsibility to support their students by ensuring that housing over breaks is accessible and affordable for all.

We urge university administrations to re-evaluate their housing policies and consider offering free or significantly reduced holiday housing costs. Solutions could involve providing subsidized funding for housing, seeking government or corporate partnerships, or redistributing existing university funds to better support student needs.

This change will foster a more inclusive and supportive campus community, alleviate unnecessary stress on students, and ultimately, contribute to a more productive and motivated student body.

Join us in calling upon universities to prioritize student well-being over profit, and to take transparent, actionable steps towards eliminating housing fees during holiday breaks for students who truly need it.

Please sign this petition to support affordable and empowering education environments for all students.