The Dean of Students office announced on Feb. 27 via email that a St. Olaf College alumnus and parent had donated money to establish the Emergency Fund for Students. The Fund is designed to provide full-time students with monetary support in the event of emergency, only after they have exhausted all other options for receiving money.
“This was initiated by a couple of College donors who were aware that some students find themselves in dire situations and have exhausted other ways of accessing funds to pay for necessary expenses,” Vice President of Student Life Greg Kneser wrote. “Often relatively modest amounts of money can make a significant difference for students.”
While each student’s situation is considered on a case-by-case basis, emergencies that could qualify for these funds are travel, medical, or immigration related expenses. Funds provided generally won’t exceed $400, though certain circumstances could warrant more.
Students can submit a brief application online to receive emergency funding, and the Dean of Students office will be in contact. According to Kneser, requests are usually processed and funds made available within a few days.
