Pacific Union College received $569,112 from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide emergency financial aid grants directly to PUC students affected by the COVID-19 crisis.
The college received the funds on April 28 and by mid-May, close to $300,000 had already been distributed to 394 students.
PUC estimates around 400 students are eligible to receive grants from this federal fund, which is intended to support those who are experiencing unforeseen hardship from the COVID-10 global pandemic. This includes students who need additional support for their education.
“We are grateful we received the CARES Act funds and that we can reach so many students with the additional assistance,” said J.R. Rogers, PUC’s Associate Vice President of Student Life. “Some students couldn’t do online learning because they didn’t have computers and some have parents who are now out of work and needed to help support their families. Almost anything you can imagine being an issue is the reality for our students right now.”
Another avenue of support for PUC students affected by the pandemic has come from the college’s Coronavirus Student Emergency Fund. The fund was started early in the crisis as the needs of PUC students started to become apparent. The fund has raised more than $92,000 from 238 PUC alumni and other donors with a goal of reaching $100,000.
"Alumni and friends of the college have shown up in the lives of our students in a big way,” said Kellie Lind, PUC’s Vice President for Alumni and Advancement. “In just 60 days, over $92,000 has been donated to support students who are facing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19. That number includes an incredibly generous gift of $20,000 from the PUC Church. On behalf of all of our students, we are grateful for everyone who continues to show their support."
Students who have received the emergency funds have already been able to put the support to use.
“I am very thankful for any type of help during these tough times!” One of the student recipients said. “I appreciate everyone who is helping students at the moment, we need support more than ever. God bless everyone donating to support!”
Donations to the Student Emergency Fund can still be made online at puc.fund/covid19.