Welcome to the Student Emergency Fund at San Francisco Bay University

 

The Emergency Fund is dedicated to assisting students facing unexpected financial hardships that impact their ability to meet basic needs. Our mission is to help you stay enrolled and progress toward graduation by providing timely financial support and connecting you with helpful and relevant resources. Whether you need help with essential clothing, food, or other necessities, the Emergency Fund is here to support you during challenging times.

Objectives

  • Immediate Financial Assistance:

    The Student Emergency Fund provides rapid support to students encountering urgent and unexpected situations. Whether it's an unforeseen medical expense, or any other sudden financial burden, the fund is designed to alleviate stress and offer swift relief. We understand that facing such challenges can be overwhelming, and we aim to help you address your most pressing needs without delay, allowing you to focus on your education.

  • Support Educational Continuity:

    Our primary goal is to ensure that financial challenges do not disrupt your academic journey. We recognize that financial strain can be a significant source of stress, potentially leading to the difficult decision of pausing or abandoning your studies. Our timely assistance is designed to prevent such situations, helping you stay enrolled and on track toward graduation despite unforeseen obstacles. We are committed to supporting you through these tough times, ensuring you can continue pursuing your educational goals without interruption.

  • Resource Connection:

    In addition to immediate financial aid, the fund serves as a gateway to further resources available through the Financial Aid Department. We understand that navigating financial challenges can be complex, and we want to ensure you have access to the comprehensive support you need. Whether you require long-term financial planning, additional forms of aid, or guidance on managing your financial situation, we are here to connect you with the appropriate resources and support systems. Our holistic approach ensures that you receive immediate help and are equipped with the tools and knowledge to handle future financial challenges effectively.

Eligibility

  • Currently enrolled in 6 or more units at SFBU as an undergraduate or graduate student.
  • Facing an unexpected financial hardship due to an emergency or unplanned event that affects your ability to continue your education at San Francisco Bay University.
  • Funds subject to committee approval based on documentation and circumstances.

Eligible Requests

  • Technology Assistance: Loaner Laptops

    Students in need of a laptop for educational purposes may apply for a loaner laptop through the Student Emergency Fund. To access a loaner laptop, the student must complete both the SFBU Student Emergency Fund Laptop Loaner Agreement and the Student Emergency Fund Request Form.

    Loaner laptops are provided for one semester only and must be returned by the agreed deadline stated in the loaner agreement. This program offers temporary technology support to ensure students can continue their academic work without disruption. Laptops are subject to availability. Please speak to the Financial Aid Department for details.

  • Medical Expenses:

    Provides support for unexpected medical costs resulting from emergencies, illnesses, or accidents.

    Note: Ongoing monthly or annual insurance premiums are not covered, students under their parent’s plan or international students under the international student insurance.

  • Food Insecurity:

    Provides referrals to obtain food through non-profits and nearby organizations.

     

  • Clothing Insecurity: (Clothing Closet at SFBU coming soon)

    This program is designed to support students at our school in Fremont, California, who are experiencing clothing insecurity. The program aims to provide essential clothing items to students who may not have the financial means to purchase them, ensuring they can attend school comfortably and with dignity.

    • Clothing Examples Covered:
      • Everyday Attire: Shirts, pants, skirts, and dresses suitable for school wear.
      • Footwear: Shoes, sneakers, and sandals appropriate for various weather conditions and school activities.
      • Outerwear: Jackets, sweaters, and hoodies for protection against cooler weather.
      • Undergarments: Essential items such as socks, underwear, and undershirts.
    • Request Types Not Covered:
      • Specialty or Designer Clothing: Items that are luxury or fashion-oriented, rather than practical and necessary, are not covered.
      • Sports-Specific Gear: Clothing or accessories specifically for sports teams or activities are excluded, as the focus is on everyday attire.
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Exhaustion of Other Financing Options: Students must demonstrate that they have explored and exhausted all other available financial resources before applying for assistance.
    • Preferential Consideration Given To:
      • High-Need Students: Students from low-income families or those facing sudden financial difficulties.
      • Students New to the Area: Students who have recently relocated to Fremont and may need additional clothing suitable for the local climate.
      • First and Second-Year Students: Younger students who may be adjusting to new environments or may have fewer financial resources.
    • Application and Review Period:
      • Requests Considered: Year-round, with particular attention to needs arising at the beginning of the school year or during seasonal changes.
      • Application Process: Students must apply by detailing their financial need, the specific clothing items they require, and any other relevant circumstances.
     

  • Emergency Travel:

    Funds travel due to a family crisis, such as the death or severe illness of an immediate family member, requiring sudden travel.

Please Note: Requests will not be considered for:

  • Non-essential or luxury items.
  • Routine or preventive medical care and treatments covered by insurance.
  • Regular car maintenance or non-urgent repairs.
  • Rent or housing costs for SFBU campus residences.
  • Travel expenses not related to emergencies.
  • Technology upgrades or non-essential purchases.

These requests are designed to address immediate and unforeseen needs that could impact your ability to continue your education at SFBU. All requests must be directly related to an emergency or crisis situation.

Funding Details

  • Maximum $650 per academic year upon approval by committee

Funds Awarded Directly to the Student: We understand that financial emergencies can affect many areas of your life. However, to ensure we can support as many students as possible, these funds are intended to assist with your immediate personal needs related to your education and well-being. Unfortunately, they cannot be used to support family members or others outside of your care.

How to Apply

  • Complete the Application: Fill out the Emergency Fund Application Form (Google Forms) with all required information. 
  • Submit Documentation: Provide the necessary documentation to support your request, such as receipts, medical bills not covered by insurance, or any other relevant paperwork that verifies the emergency and associated costs.
  • Review Process: Our SEF Committee/Task Force will review your application and respond within 2 weeks of submission.

Additional Resources

We encourage you to explore various resources available through the Financial Aid Department to help manage financial challenges. Our team is dedicated to finding the best solutions to meet your needs.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the Student Emergency Fund, please contact the Financial Aid Department: