Emergency Aid

IECC CARES Hub Emergency Funds

The IECC Connecting Assistance, Resources, and Essentials Support (C.A.R.E.S.) Hub (CARES Hub) provides limited, short-term financial assistance to help students facing sudden, unforeseen economic hardship that threatens their ability to remain enrolled. Support may include emergency stipends, housing-related assistance, and transportation support, with a focus on stabilizing students experiencing housing insecurity.

Eligible emergencies may include situations such as accidents, illness, injury, fire, or other unexpected crises that prevent a student from meeting immediate financial obligations. This program is not intended to address ongoing or long-term financial challenges. Applicants are expected to have made reasonable efforts to resolve their situation and must contact the Financial Aid Office prior to applying.

When approved, payments are typically made directly to a third party (e.g., utility provider, medical provider, landlord, or IECC Bookstore). Direct reimbursements or gift cards are issued only in rare, extenuating circumstances and require substantial documentation. Processing time is generally 1–2 weeks, and funding is limited and not guaranteed.

Eligibility and Award Guidelines

• Applicants must be enrolled IECC students in a degree or certificate program (part-time and full-time students are eligible).
• Funding is limited to one award per academic year, regardless of amount. 
• The maximum award amount is $800 per academic year.
• Priority consideration is given to full-time students and first-time applicants.
• Awards are funded through the ICCB Supporting Students Facing Homelessness and Housing Insecurity grant.
• Applications are reviewed based on the nature of the hardship, efforts made to resolve it, and the potential impact of funding on the student’s academic success.

Application Process 

To apply, submit a completed application along with supporting documentation (e.g., medical bills, eviction notices, utility shut-off notices) to the Financial Aid Office. All personal information will remain confidential and will be reviewed by the CARES Hub committee for funding determination.

For additional information, contact the CARES Hub at careshub@iecc.edu