SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. - The Western Nebraska Community College Foundation has distributed $49,672.02 from
the Student Emergency Fund (SEF) to 92 students in need since the COVID-19 pandemic
began in March 2020.
Nearly $30,000 was raised from generous donations from the community to help students
with urgent needs stay on track with their education. An additional $27,000 was awarded
to the WNCC Foundation from the CARES Act in November. The WNCC Foundation originally applied for the maximum $12,000, but was identified
as high-need by the State of Nebraska and was granted a total of $27,000.
"Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the CARES grant, our students are receiving the help they needed
during these difficult times," WNCC Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Reisig
said.
The Foundation worked with various WNCC offices such as Student Life, Career Pathways
& Advising, and Financial Aid to encourage students to apply. More than 75% of applicants
cited COVID-19 related reasons for applying. Seventy percent of the recipients are from the Panhandle. The vast majority of recipients,
85%, have been able to continue their education and have registered for Spring 2021
courses.
"Our students have been faced with more challenges than ever before during the COVID-19
pandemic," Reisig said. "Many have struggled to pay for rent, food, and childcare
which often leaves little left for tuition, fees, and books. This assistance helps
our students when they need it most."
The Foundation's SEF began in 2015 as a way to respond to students in urgent need
of financial assistance. On average, the SEF awards funds to 17 students, totaling
$7,612.78 in a fiscal year. In the 2018-2019 fiscal year, $12,535 was awarded to students
in need. So far in 2021, the SEF has granted more than $4,000.
For more information about the WNCC Foundation, contact foundation@wncc.edu or call
308.630.6550.