ULifeline

RLC has many resources available for people who are looking to improve mental health. The college has partnered with ULifeline, a college mental health support system that includes contact information for local institutions and national help hotlines. These contacts are not just limited to college students. Anyone from the general public is encouraged to utilize these resources.

Reaching out for support is the first step towards feeling better. If you need help, please reach out to the resources provided.

ULifeline | Community Resource Booklet

BetterMynd

Rend Lake College is partnered with BetterMynd to offer our students access to private online therapy sessions from their diverse network of licensed mental health counselors.

These 50-minute, live video-sessions are private, confidential, and can take place from the convenience of your laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Sessions are available during the day, at night, and on the weekends. BetterMynd also provides free self-help resources and free group workshops to all Rend Lake students.

To register and get started with a counselor that’s a good fit for you, sign-up here.

If you have any questions about these services, you can also email BetterMynd at [email protected]

Food Pantry

Our Food Pantry was created for students struggling to get adequate food. Studies show more than 30% of community college students in the U.S. are going hungry. And the numbers are growing. If you are dealing with food insecurity, RLC can help.  

Submit A Food Pantry Application 

Housing Assistance

In an effort to provide assistance to students experiencing homelessness, Rend Lake College has designated a staff member, Sarah Draper, to serve as a liaison to assist enrolled students who are experiencing housing insecurity.  Sarah is happy to help connect you with campus and community resources surrounding housing insecurity.

Local Housing Authorities: 

• Franklin County: 618-439-2601
• Hamilton County: 618-643-3265
• Jefferson County: 618-244-5910
• Perry County: 618-542-5409
• Wayne County: 618-842-9008
• White County: 618-966-3868
• Federal Housing Assistance: United States Department of Housing and Urban Development: www.hud.gov.  
  

For a complete list of resources in our area please download our RL-Cares Community Resource Booklet 

Laptop and Loaner Webcam Program

Rend Lake College has a Laptop and Webcam Loaner Program. If you need to borrow a laptop or webcam to complete coursework, please contact the RL-Cares program at [email protected] or by calling 618-437-5321 x 1225. Laptops require a deposit of $60. If you are a financial aid recipient, you may use FAFSA to pay the deposit. Webcams do not require a deposit. You will need to return the laptop/webcam at the end of the semester or contact RL-Cares to extend the terms of your loaner agreement.

Post-Secondary Education Services for Youth In Care

If you are a student exiting DCFS/youth in care, you might be eligible for educational funding.  For more information, visit the Illinois DCFS website DCFS (illinois.gov)