Unexpected challenges and expenses happen to everyone, including college students. With the goal of making sure these emergencies don’t get in the way of earning a degree, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is making it easier for students to apply for financial help in a crisis.
Unlike previous years, students will have one “front door” with one application for any type of emergency funding rather than applying with several units. Starting in January 2025, a website through the NextGen financial aid software system will supply the application form. Once completed, a new, collaborative Emergency Aid Team from various university departments will provide financial and/or resources support within 24 business hours.
“We find that students at the university are balancing work, school and family obligations, and that 43% of our students have some kind of basic need insecurity that can impact their education,” said Chancellor Thomas Gibson. “We don't want an unforeseen financial circumstance to derail their college education and their ability to find their purpose and career path.”
Once approved, funding will come from one of four sources, including the James and Nancy Baxter Fund, Universities of Wisconsin Administration Emergency Aid Funds, UWSP Foundation funds, and via emergency funds housed in UWSP’s colleges, such as the College of Natural Resources Crisis Intervention Fund established by UWSP CNR alumnus Alan Buchanan.
Created in 2014, the Baxter Fund has provided emergency awards for students with unexpected expenses due to car repairs, accidents, housing, technology and health care costs. The fund was created to help students with short-term challenges that might prevent them from continuing their university courses.
“There are times in life where a little financial help can make the difference between failure and success,” said UWSP alumni Jim and Nancy Baxter. “This fund is intended to enhance that opportunity.”
Individuals from the Dean of Students, Financial Aid, Academic Success, Bursars, Advancement and Diversity and College Access offices will participate as members of the Emergency Aid team to review applications, award funds and ensure consistency. The NexGen software will be used to support and immediately award funds.
Prior to January 2025, students may reach out to uwsp.foundation@uwsp.edu to apply for emergency assistance. Students may be referred to the Dean of Students for general resource support as well as Financial Aid. Additional support may also be found through The Cupboard, the student food pantry on campus, as well as The Closet and The Backpack, which offer donated clothing, school and home supplies for students through the Office of Sustainability.
Those considering donations to the UWSP’s emergency funds may do so through the UWSP Foundation, or visit UWSP Giving Tuesday to donate to The Cupboard, The Closet, The Backpack and other student support funds across campus.
