By CSC COLLEGE RELATIONS
CHADRON – Chadron State College has successfully distributed the funds provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to 458 students. Beginning in May, Chadron State began distributing the funds, and by June 1, the institution had granted $540,638 for students’ financial relief. The CARES Act funds for student relief were intended to cover increased home technology costs, food insecurity, travel expenses, health care, and childcare for students.
According to Sherry Douglas, associate vice president of student services, CSC determined two groups of eligible students. First, students who completed the FAFSA and passed all eligibility requirements, and second, students who have not completed the FAFSA but could potentially be eligible if the form was completed. The second group of students was required to upload support documentation to validate eligibility.
In the spring, CSC emailed all eligible students with a link to a survey. The grant amount was determined based on the individual’s responses, estimated costs for each category based on the estimated cost of attendance components, and available funds, Douglas said. Grants were awarded on a first come, first serve basis. The average grant provided to CSC students was $1,180.