FEATURED: EMERGENCY FUND A BLESSING FOR STUDENTS IN NEED

By Emily Hedrick '70

In addition to closing campus and shifting classes online, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Guilford’s student body in serious and unexpected ways. Responding to these needs, in late March the College created a new Guilford Emergency Fund to give members of the community a way to help.

Students were informed of the fund March 25. By June, more than 250 requests had been received, according to Dean of Students Steve Mencarini.

With the campus shut down, students lost housing in campus residence halls and jobs critical to meeting their daily living expenses. Some found themselves stranded with no means to return home. Other immediate needs included technology for online learning, books for current classes, medical bills and medications, car repair and other similar emergencies.

As of May 31, Guilford College benefactors, alumnae/i and friends have donated more than $77,000 in cash and inkind gifts to support this effort.

“The Guilford Emergency Fund is a powerful manifestation of the Guilford community’s love toward our current students,” Steve observes.

In a community rooted in the Quaker ideals of stewardship, Guilford has practiced philanthropic tenets throughout its history. The outpouring of gifts during this latest challenge is gratifying but not unusual.

“My father was a generous man and I learned a lot from him about the importance of helping others,” says one Emergency Fund donor who asked to remain anonymous.

“My daughter’s years at Guilford College have brought a strong attachment with the school for both of us. Guilford is a unique environment that does not discriminate, and its student body comprises a much broader diversity than other colleges and universities in our area. When I heard there were students in need still on campus after the shut-down, I felt compelled to help.”

Christian R., a student who received a grant from the new fund, described it as “nothing less than a blessing for me. Being out of work and having bills is beyond stressful, and receiving this Emergency Fund has not only helped me pay my bills, but also helps my family as well. I am forever grateful. Thank you!”

Adds Tenaja H., another recipient, “The Emergency Fund has helped me get essentials that I need during this time. I live off campus and was used to buying groceries in small amounts. However, that is no longer an option and I was really afraid I would run out of money in the first week or two of not having meals or access to the Quaker Cupboard. The fund helped me plan and make sure I’m eating and taking care of myself.”

Donations continue to come in, reports Ara Serjoie, Vice President for Advancement. In-kind donations such as gift cards, non-perishable food items, airline miles, laptops and temporary housing are also welcomed.

All Guilford College full- and part-time students experiencing a financial hardship are eligible to apply. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all funds are depleted. “We’re committed to supporting our students in every possible way throughout the duration of this crisis,” Ara adds. “This is not the time to slow our efforts to raise money. In fact, it’s more critical than it ever has been to garner as much support as we can from our alumni and friends.”

Expressing his deep gratitude for the response so far, he encourages alumni and friends to continue their support not only to provide for students made vulnerable by the pandemic, but for whatever the future holds for the College. To that end, he points out that Loyalty Fund gifts are more important than ever.

The Coronavirus may still impose social distancing on us, but Guilfordians’ generosity and strong sense of community thrive.