Wendy M. Dressel Student Emergency Fund

The Teachers College Student Emergency Fund provides limited emergency financial assistance to currently enrolled Teachers College students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses because of temporary and unexpected hardship. Funds are awarded once in a student's academic career at Teachers College, and are designated to off-set a short-term financial need. The maximum award is $250 per student. The fund is not intended to replace or supplement financial aid. Funds are awarded as a grant and do not require repayment like loans. Funds may count as income and may be subject to Federal and/or State taxes.

Examples of eligible expenses that may be covered:

Replacement of essential personal belongings due to fire, flood, theft, or natural disaster
Emergency or temporary housing assistance
Medications or costs related to emergency medical care (not covered by insurance)
Assistance with rent or utilities due to an emergency situation
Emergency transportation costs related to a family death or illness
Safety related needs (ie, changing a lock)

Examples of ineligible expenses that cannot be covered:

Penalties, fines, tickets, legal fees or jail bond
Lost ID or meal cards
Normal and anticipated expenses (tuition, fees, health insurance, books, rent)
Non-essential utilities, household or furniture costs related to damage or theft
Costs for entertainment, recreation or non-essential travel
Replacement of non-essential personal items due to fire, flood, theft or natural disaster

Eligibility criteria:

Applicant must be enrolled in at least 1-billable point
Applicant must have financial hardship resulting from an emergency, accident, or critical incident
Other possible resources have been considered and are either unavailable or insufficient