Georgia College Helping Hands Fund
Message from Vice President Brooks to Students - 3.26.2020
Dear Georgia College Students:
I certainly hope that this email finds you well and healthy in the midst of the COVID-19 situation. As President Dorman indicated in his message to campus, “these are unprecedented times.” I am fond of saying, that the measure of a community is not found in how they manage when things are going well, but rather, how they respond when things are challenging. I am proud to be involved with the Georgia College community that genuinely cares about all of it’s members.
Due to the fact that we are navigating unchartered territory, the COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty, fear and worry. In addition, the current situation has created a lot of financial needs, particularly for students who have been displaced from employment and may not have other resources to help see them through. I have learned about students whose financial situation has left them unsure about how they will pay for food, housing and/or utilities.
If you happen to be a currently registered student and you are experiencing financial distress due to a change in employment or other issues due to the COVID-19 crisis, we may be able to help. Georgia College has set up an emergency fund called GC Helping Hands, to help students who are experiencing serious financial distress. These are not loans and do not need to be repaid. Priority will be given to students who exhibit the greatest financial needs. Due to the limited available funds and the scope of the crisis, we have set limits on the amount of assistance available to individual students. These funds are usually limited to under $500 per student. It is important to note that the Student Life Office may not be able to fulfill all requests.
Students can access the application form by clicking here: https://georgiacollege-bsucw.formstack.com/forms/student_emergency_funding
If you happen to be a student or family member who can help support this fund and your fellow Bobcats, you can do so by clicking here: https://crowdthunder.gcsu.edu/project/20434
Although it is easy to get overwhelmed in times like these, it is important to remember that although we may be physically separated, you are a member of a loving, caring community. We will certainly get through this together.
Please stay well!
Shawn Brooks, PhD
Vice President for Student Life
GEORGIA COLLEGE