As the impacts of COVID-19 continue to unfold and affect daily life, many in the George Washington University community are showing support for students through the GW Cares Student Assistance Fund.
The fund assists any undergraduate or graduate student facing financial hardship, including in paying for housing, food or technology expenses; offsetting income from lost part-time jobs; or subsidizing transportation for those traveling home to complete the spring semester virtually.
These are some of the most pressing hardships created by the evolving COVID-19 public health situation. In these challenging circumstances, student needs exceed the support the university has already provided to students and families, which includes technology investments to transition to a virtual learning environment and providing a housing credit for the spring semester.
Alumni, faculty, staff and other community members have been supportive with initial contributions. Now, generous university benefactors have allocated a matching gift and will match all donations to support students through GW Cares, up to $100,000, through the end of the semester.
“We are asking our GW family—our alumni, staff, family and friends—for your help to lessen the financial burden some of our students have faced and will be facing in the near future,” said Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Cissy Petty. “The strength of the GW community is the support we give to each other. Even now, while some of us may be facing an uncertain future, your willingness to provide a little extra support is appreciated. Together, as a community, let’s show our students how much they mean to us, and that we want them to be successful in life.”
Examples of students who will benefit include:
- A student from a small town in Indiana who is a first-generation college student, does not have internet access at home and relies on a Federal Work Study job as a primary source of income.
- A sophomore student who works a part-time job, suffers from food insecurity, has found solace in access to The Store, GW’s food pantry, and will contribute as a caregiver during time at home.
Students who are seeking support and financial assistance can apply for GW Cares assistance online. A member of the Division of Student Affairs Student Support team will respond.
Other funds that support students with unexpected financial needs—including the Ron Howard Student Assistance Fund—also have been spent to help students during COVID-19.
