Thanks to the availability of new state funds, the Educational Foundation is able to greatly expand the Virginia Western Student Emergency Fund. Please encourage students to complete the online application if they are experiencing a financial emergency or hardship that would interfere with them succeeding in class. Examples include house fire, medical issues, homelessness, food insecurity and lack of transportation or technology. The fund also supports textbook assistance.

Foundation and Financial Aid staff are working together on the new and speedy process to review applications and reply within 48 hours. 

Starting in spring 2025: 

• The Student Emergency Fund application opens a week before the start of each semester and closes on the last day of class. These funds will be available year-round (NEW).

• Awards will likely average $500 but can go higher, depending on the student’s need (NEW).

• Students can receive this aid once in an academic year.

• Funds are available to assist currently enrolled students in academic and workforce programs. 

The application and detailed eligibility requirements are at virginiawestern.edu/emergency-fund. Please contact Carolyn Payne in the Foundation if you have any questions, cpayne@virginiawestern.edu.