Students at Texas Southmost College are once again getting much needed help thanks to federal funds given to TSC from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund – authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Eligible students will receive $652 in federal funds and will begin to see the money as early as this week.
To help assist students with expenses during the pandemic, TSC was awarded another $1.8 million, in addition to the initial $1.8 million they received last April.
“Times have been challenging for our students who are overcoming every obstacle to give themselves and their families a better life through education,” said TSC President Jesus Roberto Rodriguez. “And these funds help us provide much needed assistance, so that they can continue to pursue their educational goals.”
In accordance with federal guidelines, students must meet certain eligibility criteria to receive this funding. They must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen (including a U.S. national or permanent resident), have a valid Social Security number and, if male (between 18-25), be registered for selective service. For the most up-to-date criteria, please visit the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators’ COVID-19 Reference Page at: https://www.nasfaa.org/covid19_heerf.
TSC will use the information provided on a student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to help determine qualification for CARES Act funding.
Eligibility is not based on income.
These funds assist students with expenses such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care and child care.
TSC Board of Trustee Chair Ruben Herrera said he hopes this will provide relief and alleviate some stress for students who are facing job loss and financial hardships.
“These funds are timely for our students in midst of the COVID crisis and our recent winter storm,” said Herrera. “Through it all, we remain steadfast in ensuring that our students know that their education and well-being are our top priority, and we hope this help will allow them to focus on finishing Scorpion Strong.”
For Darius Garza, 19, a TSC General Studies student, a grant like this gives him the chance to continue his education and move forward with his goal of pursuing a career in health care.
“This is a huge relief and benefit for students like me,” said the Brownsville native. “With this I am able to afford what I need to stay on task, such as books and reliable internet. I’m really thankful that TSC looks out for us and understands our needs as students. It means a lot to me.”
TSC will also awarded funding to enhance and improve the college’s infrastructure and safety measures.
“At the end of the day this money will provide our students with the learning environments they need and the safety measures that are expected, especially during this time,” said TSC Vice President of Finance and Administration Gisela Figueroa. “This grant goes entirely to benefit our students.”
CARES Act funding will be issued through direct deposit or by check via mail. Students are encouraged to update their refund preferences by following the steps listed on the TSC Business Services webpage at: http://www.tsc.edu/index.php/about/office-of-finance/refunds.html.
For more information about the programs offered at TSC, visit tsc.edu. Registration for summer and fall 2021 begins April 1.