Even before the coronavirus crisis up-ended daily life, college students were already juggling critical demands on their time, careers, and finances. Any interruption in their study-work-life balance could threaten their stability. COVID-19 has created a sudden and severe disturbance and now scores of students are experiencing serious setbacks. Fortunately, 91ֿ has established the 91ֿ Emergency Grant Fund.
During this unprecedented time, coupled with our move to remote instruction as of March 16, the lives of our students have been significantly disrupted.
Along with the uncertainty we are all facing, students and families are dealing with unexpected costs including travel, food, housing, technology needs, and in some cases, lost wages.
Students enrolled for the Spring 2020 term at any Kent Campus may apply for up to $1,000 in emergency funds (this is not a loan; it will not need to be repaid). The 91ֿ Emergency Grant Fund has been created to assist 91ֿ students with a sudden, urgent or unforeseen expense that requires immediate attention, including:
- Tuition and Fees
- Housing and meals (on or off-campus)
- Utilities (off-campus)
- Books, supplies and other course-related materials or technology
- Emergency travel cost or car maintenance
- Unexpected medical expenses
Students seeking financial assistance may click here for the application. As of May 4, there was more than $249,600 in the fund from donations. This private support, coupled with the federal CARES funding the university received to help students, is already going fast.
Since the application opened a few weeks ago, more than 5,000 students applied for emergency financial assistance, and more applications are expected.
Considering that anticipated student needs will outpace the current cache available, anyone in a position to bolster the 91ֿ Emergency Grant Fund during this overwhelming time is encouraged to . Supporters can also help the university provide gift cards that students can use at local grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores, such as Giant Eagle, Walmart, CVS, GetGo, and Sheetz. The gift cards will be given as a one-time financial supplement to students who have an immediate need. Those interested in supporting through donated gift cards can reach out directly to Molly Smith at 440-834-3761 or by email.
As the coronavirus has restricted the ways students access class and work, and while the bills accumulate, this is a time to pay it forward — or as the 91ֿ community would say — “Flashes take care of Flashes.” Any donation to the emergency fund is valued as an investment in our shared brighter future.