When President Richard Helldobler asked alumni and friends to assist William Paterson students who might be facing emergency financial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the response began immediately.
In the past two weeks, more than $27,000 has been raised through the William Paterson University Foundation for the Student Emergency Support Fund, which will provide direct support to currently enrolled students to help meet critical, immediate needs.
“We know that many of our students have urgent financial need right now,” says Pam Ferguson, vice president for institutional advancement and president of the Foundation. “Students or their family members may have lost their jobs, and may need help paying the rent, buying groceries, or paying medical bills, and we expect this need to continue. We are so grateful for the support of the many members of the University community—faculty, staff, alumni, and friends—who have supported this effort and we thank everyone for their generosity at what is a difficult time for all.”
Students who are experiencing an unanticipated and/or temporary hardship resulting from an emergency and/or crisis situation related to COVID-19 may apply for an emergency financial assistance grant from the fund. The amount awarded is based on circumstance and need, with a maximum award of $500. Approved grants do not need to be repaid.
To be eligible, a student must be enrolled as a full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate degree-seeking student, be in good academic standing, and have a demonstrated emergency financial need. Expenses such as assistance with rent, utilities, groceries or other household expenses, medication or medical care, and books, computers, or other essential academic expenses will all be considered for support.
Ferguson expects that the need will continue to increase. Anyone interested in making a donation to support the fund may click the link below:
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