April 9, 2020
Las Vegas, N.M. – Student relief funds for emergencies in place at New Mexico Highlands University are taking on new importance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Office of Campus Life offers a student extreme hardship fund and the Foundation Office offers the Ray Farmer Fund. Eligible students do not need to repay the funds to Highlands and the awards do not impact financial aid.
The student extreme hardship fund was established to help provide financial assistance to Highlands students who face hardship due to events such as job loss, travel expenses for a death in the immediate family, unusual uninsured medical expenses, and uninsured losses caused by a fire.
“We know that we have Highlands students facing a whole host of issues because of the pandemic such as job loss, transportation issues and food shortages,” said Margaret Gonzales, Campus Life Director. “This fund has helped a number of students over the years, but at a time like this, I want students to know this fund is available to assist them during such a crucial time.”
Highlands students wishing to apply to the student extreme hardship fund may contact Gonzales at marggonzales@nmhu.edu Gonzales said eligible students could receive up to $250 depending on their need. She will let students know what documentation is needed.
The Ray Farmer Fund is a student emergency fund honoring former Dean of Students Ray Farmer and supports students experiencing an emergency that causes financial hardship. Current Highlands students can receive up to a $500 one-time award from the fund to cover expenses related to an unforeseen, unexpected and urgent situation.
“The Ray Farmer Fund is important, especially now, as students may need to purchase technology and travel home sooner than expected,” said Theresa Law, vice president for advancement and executive director for the Highlands Foundation. “Often Highlands students are stretched financially before the advent of an emergency, and the amount offered by the Ray Farmer Fund can help them continue and complete their education.”
Highlands students wishing to apply to the Ray Farmer Fund may contact Law at tlaw@nmhu.edu with a brief explanation of their hardship. The foundation will let the student know what documentation is needed.
Law said the COVID-19 pandemic is considered an emergency and financial hardship directly related to the pandemic would likely be eligible for an emergency award.