Unexpected challenges happen. Leaving school shouldn’t be one of them.
If you’re facing a financial emergency that could impact your ability to stay enrolled, POWER may be able to help. Apply for support below.
Micro Emergency Grants
POWER provides timely financial support to students facing unexpected hardships—so a temporary setback doesn’t become a permanent interruption.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
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Be currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student at an accredited Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
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Be in good academic standing with their institution.
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Demonstrate an unforeseen financial hardship that may impact their ability to remain enrolled or meet essential living needs.
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Provide documentation verifying current enrollment and the emergency need for which assistance is being requested.
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Submit a complete application and any supporting documentation required for review.
What Funds Cover
The Emergency Relief Fund provides short-term financial support to help students remain enrolled during unexpected hardship. Funding is intended to address immediate, essential needs that could otherwise disrupt your ability to continue your education.
Grants are typically awarded between $500–$1,000, depending on demonstrated need.
Funds may be used for:
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Housing and rent (urgent or past-due balances)
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Food and groceries (short-term need)
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Emergency travel due to family crisis
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Medical expenses
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Essential utilities
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Temporary childcare support due to an unexpected disruption impacting class attendance or enrollment
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Emergency transportation required to maintain enrollment
What the Fund Does Not Cover
To ensure we can support as many students as possible, the Emergency Relief Fund does not cover:
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Tuition or academic fees
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Ongoing or long-term financial obligations
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Non-essential or discretionary expenses
How To Apply
The application process is straightforward:
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Complete the application form
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Upload supporting documents (bills, notices, or proof of enrollment)
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Submit for review
Review Timeline
Applications are reviewed promptly.
You can expect a decision within 10 business days.
If approved, funds are distributed as quickly as possible to address urgent needs.
Confidentiality
We understand the sensitivity of financial hardship.
All information is kept strictly confidential and used only to assess your application.