About
First established in 2017 with the goal of making grants directly to students who show urgent need, extreme hardship, and/or lack of alternative options, the Fund’s importance has increased greatly during the COVID-19 crisis. The emergency fund, funded entirely by donors, has provided a critical safety net allowing our students to stay in school and graduate. Grants to students range from $100-$500.
From time to time, students on any campus may face unforeseen financial hardships and difficult life events that affect their ability to complete their studies. The Fund provides practical assistance in situations when a little extra help will go a long way. Your gift will support students facing temporary financial difficulties such as:
- Unexpected healthcare costs not covered by insurance
- Travel expenses related to a death in the family
- Loss from theft or fire
- Automobile repair expenses
- Recovery from an accident or illness
The Fund also supports food insecurity. Access and food distribution to those in need is met by the use of the Poet Pantry and food vouchers. Housed in the Office of Equity and Inclusion, the pantry has been in demand since its inception in 2019.
Student testimonial (anonymous)
“I am a non-traditional Whittier College student, currently enrolled full time, working on a degree in Mathematics. I am a single parent in my late 30's, I have four children every other week, and I work part-time. I try to budget my income, but have had some unexpected financial problems recently. If it was not for the support of Whittier College faculty and the emergency funds, I truly believe I would not be in college right now. If this message finds any of the donors, please know that my kids and I appreciated the help during our hard times.”