Student Assistance Fund for Eastern

This application is not for CARES/HEERF funds and not connected to those funds. Students who are eligible for CARES/HEERF funds will be contacted by the University.  

The Student Assistance Fund for Eastern (SAFE) provides short-term financial assistance to Eastern Kentucky University students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses due to an unexpected emergency or crisis situation. 

Examples of unexpected emergency situations include accidents, illness, death of a family member, loss of property or income, unanticipated educational expenses. Priority will be given to students who are at risk of withdrawing from the university because of said expenses. Awards do not generally exceed $300. 

Student emergency funds are designated to off-set short-term financial need and are not intended to replace or supplement financial aid or scholarship. All situations are unique and will be evaluated carefully and confidentially. 

Possible expenses covered by SAFE Funds (this is not an exhaustive list): 

• Medications and other costs related to emergency medical care
• Temporary housing
• Safety needs
• Replacement of essential belongings due to fire, theft, or natural disaster
• Travel costs related to the death or illness of an immediate family member
• Critical and time-sensitive academic needs

Expenses not covered by SAFE Funds (this is not an exhaustive list): 

• Tuition, fees, health insurance, and study abroad costs
• Non-essential utilities 
• Regularly anticipated fixed expenses
• Parking tickets

Eligibility requirements for SAFE Funds:

• Must be currently enrolled and attending the semester in which the funds are being requested.
• Must have successfully completed one full term of classes at EKU.
• Must be a degree-seeking student.
• Must be in Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) with Financial Aid. Students who are denied financial aid due to their SAP may be able to appeal for aid. 
• Must have an immediate and documented financial hardship resulting from an emergency, accident, or other unexpected event.
• Must have a bank account on file with EKU.
• If you are currently receiving financial aid, funding from the Emergency Fund may affect your financial aid package.
• IMPORTANT: This is not for CARES funds.  

Key Note:

Applications for SAFE emergency funds will be reviewed quickly and, if approved, every attempt will be made to disburse the funds in a timely manner. For questions or additional information please contact Dr. Lara Vance, Dean of Students.

Apply for SAFE: 

• Complete the Student Assistance Fund for Eastern.
• Completed request is reviewed. Critera for approval and granted amounts will be based on eligibility, documentation of need, and availability of funds. 
• You will be notified of a decision with follow-up instructions including meeting with a member of Student Success online or phone.
• A required follow-up form will be emailed after payment is disbursed. 

APPLY FOR STUDENT EMERGENCY FUNDS