In an effort to provide grants and resources to degree-seeking students in need, NIU has created a Student Emergency Fund.
Developed in partnership with the NIU Foundation, the fund will launch Monday, April 6. Students will be encouraged to fill out a simple form describing the resources and/or funding they need to successfully pursue their studies for the rest of the semester. Faculty and staff also can fill out the form on behalf of students.
“NIU recognizes that COVID-19 has impacted all of our students and, for many, has exacerbated existing challenges and even created new ones,” President Lisa Freeman said. “As this unprecedented situation continues and as further developments impact our country and state, we want to help our degree-seeking students stay in school, successfully finish the semester and plan for their future.”
Specifically, the fund will assist struggling students with resources and funding to get access to technology, employment, housing, meals, transportation and other critical, basic needs.
Students who complete the form will be contacted within 24 hours by a member of the Center for Student Assistance who will offer support, identify resources appropriate to student needs and provide up to $500 in funding. The goal is to provide funding decisions within three to four days of the request.
Information about the fund, the application link and details about eligible expenses will be emailed April 6 to all students. Students who need support today can contact the Center for Student Assistance at studentassistance@niu.edu or 815-753-8100.
Donations to the Student Emergency Fund can be made through the NIU Foundation, and 100% of all gifts to the fund will be used to provide direct support to students in need.
Along with the NIU Foundation, the fund is administered through a partnership with the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office; the Office of the Provost; Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and the Office of the Dean of Students.
