The term FOOD, SHELTER, ETC. can be summarized by two crossword solutions: NEEDS (5 letters) and ESSENTIALS (10 letters). NEEDS refers to the basic requirements for survival, such as food, water, and shelter. ESSENTIALS is a broader term that encompasses all of the items necessary for a comfortable life, including clothing, medical care, and education. Both terms are used to describe the basic necessities of life that everyone should have access to.