Western Carolina University has a student emergency fund to assist during times of crisis.
“If a student is in need of emergency financial support, they can apply for assistance at dos.wcu.edu. Each request will be reviewed individually, and we encourage students to submit applications reflecting their specific level of need so we can assess and assist appropriately,” Betsy Aspinwall, Dean of Students said in an email. As she added while the standard emergency funding award is up to $500, given the current circumstances, they are not limiting award amounts and will do our best to provide reasonable assistance based on a case-by-case basis. “We aim to process requests promptly, allowing funds to be deposited into your bank account within a few days. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at dos@wcu.edu.”
The money the students receive does not have to be repaid. Students can usually receive up to $500, but due to the extenuating circumstances caused by Hurricane Helene students can receive more money if necessary. The student emergency fund has received over $10,000 in donations.
Students should apply for funding here. Scroll down to Emergency Student Fund.
They must provide a description of the situation, documentation of the need, such as a billing statement, disclose any financial aid being received and their employment status.
This money cannot be used for tuition, university fees, family-related expenses, non-essential utilities like streaming, and other anticipated expenses.
Donate to the fund here. Please designate your donation to the Student Emergency Fund.
For any other questions, please contact dos@wcu.edu
