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Student Emergency Fund Supporters Help Ease COVID-19 Hardships
About $73,000 Has Been Raised; More Than 700 Students Apply for Aid

UT Dallas has created a Student Emergency Fund to assist Comets dealing with housing and food insecurity, elimination of jobs or reduced incomes, medical care, needs associated with remote learning and other unplanned expenses.

More than 365 individuals have already contributed more than $73,000 to a new Student Emergency Fund at The University of Texas at Dallas that was created to help students facing unforeseen financial challenges during the coronavirus pandemic.

“In these unprecedented times, some of our students are experiencing hardships that could prohibit them from continuing with classes this semester and potentially beyond,” said Amanda Smith, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students. “It is our goal, through the generosity of our donors, to be able to assist as many students as possible so that they can continue their pursuit of a valuable UT Dallas education.”

When classes moved to online learning after spring break, many students encountered unexpected difficulties related to housing, food insecurity, elimination of jobs or reduced incomes, medical care and technology. Most students have now left campus, and their departure has left many without the resources they relied on for academic success and personal well-being.

These resources included reliable access to the internet and computers capable of participating in online classes; the Student Health Center, which serves as a primary care facility for many students; the Comet Cupboard, which offers food and personal care items; and meals provided by University Dining Services.

Campus closure — along with community “stay-at-home” orders around the country — also sidelined jobs that students relied on. Many students found themselves searching for alternative ways to pay rent and afford food and other necessities.

“We have received hundreds of submissions from students requesting emergency funds and hope that our valued donors will continue to make an impact in the lives of students who are greatly in need,” Smith said.

“In these unprecedented times, some of our students are experiencing hardships that could prohibit them from continuing with classes this semester and potentially beyond. It is our goal, through the generosity of our donors, to be able to assist as many students as possible so that they can continue their pursuit of a valuable UT Dallas education.”

Amanda Smith, associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students

In one week, over 700 students applied for support from the Student Emergency Fund. The Division of Student Affairs is rapidly allocating awards and working to provide other avenues of assistance for students.

“In addition to the emergency assistance program, student affairs is working hard to assist students with personal struggles through sustained services such as remote counseling in the Student Counseling Center, career advising through the University Career Center, and virtual social activities designed to keep our Comets engaged and connected to UT Dallas,” Smith said.

Applications for assistance from the Student Emergency Financial Assistance Program can be submitted online.

Those interested in supporting students during this difficult time can contribute to the Student Emergency Fund.

Media Contact: The Office of Media Relations, UT Dallas, (972) 883-2155, [email protected].