UMMC has launched the Student Benevolence Fund to help students facing unexpected crises stay on track with their studies.

The fund was established with a donation from a graduate of the School of Medicine in 1974.

Eligible crises include sudden illness or a medical emergency, unforeseen loss of housing due to natural disaster, fire or other catastrophic events, or financial hardship from an unexpected circumstance.

The press release said that applications are reviewed by the UMMC Student Benevolence Fund Committee, which includes representatives from the offices of Student Affairs, Student Financial Services and Student Accounting.

Funding is recommended based on factors including the severity and impact of the crisis on the student’s ability to continue in a UMMC academic degree program, efforts and commitment of the student to taking financial responsibility for the situation, availability of funds, eligibility, documentation and the impact on the applicant’s financial aid package.

The new Student Benevolence Fund could be the difference between a student completing a degree on time or leaving school, said Associated Student Body President Reagan Moak. “This opportunity has the ability to alleviate financial stressors that many students may face, which I believe will have an overall positive impact on their wellbeing. UMMC students are grateful for the philanthropy and thought behind this generous gift.”

Donations can be made to the fund by visiting the UMMC Development and Alumni Engagement webpage. Choose “Other” from the menu, and then specify “Student Benevolence Fund” when completing an online gift.