Student Emergency Aid Committee

The Holy Cross Student Emergency Aid Committee (SEAC) supports students who have extenuating financial requests that are not typically covered by traditional financial aid. 

The Student Emergency Aid Committee (SEAC) utilizes funds that are supported by our generous alumni to aid students in unexpected emergency situations. All requests are private and only individuals involved with funding or resource decisions are provided access to details pertaining to the request for funding. Please note that available funding is limited.

The Office of Financial Aid is a key partner within this committee. All eligible requests are vetted through their office for validation that the student has a demonstrated need and is able to receive this resource. It is expected that all students have utilized all of the resources available to them prior to requesting assistance from this committee.

Emergency qualifying requests are:

  • Medical expenses not covered by insurance (Insurance must be utilized prior to a request)
  • Winter Coats/Boots (Please note this is a one time purchase and will have a strict funding limit.)
  • Course materials - Textbooks, workbooks, and access codes are included in course materials. Any additional needs for the class cannot be covered. You may be able to utilize your refund in advance through Book Vouchers. Eligibility for this program is available on the Bursar's website. 
  • Minor technology repair - Please contact Information Technology Services at helpdesk-request@holycross.edu for information on borrowing a Chromebook.
  • Opportunities - if you are seeking assistance for opportunities (such as conferences, visa/passport for Study Abroad opportunities, etc.) not otherwise covered through financial aid or other departments, please select Opportunity from the checklist and explain your request in the form. This process is separate from emergency funding.
  • The committee recognizes that Food Insecurity is still a concern for many students. If you need assistance, please connect with your Financial Aid counselor. Information about SNAP benefits is also available on the Financial Aid website.
  • Study Abroad - If you are currently engaging in a program through the Study Abroad Office, please check to see if your need is covered through the International SOS program prior to applying for emergency assistance.

 

Non-qualifying requests include, but are not limited to:

  • Travel - We are unable to assist with travel during breaks when the college remains open due to limited funding. If you need to travel for a family death, please reach out to Robin Huntley (rhuntley@holycross.edu). Assistance is not guaranteed.
  • Tuition expenses - including tuition, housing, food plan, study abroad (including Maymester), and any fees associated with the institution
  • New technology purchases - including but not limited to cell phones, laptops, and tablets
  • Parking tickets
  • Federal or state taxes
  • Family member(s) expenses
  • Personal debt including student loans
  • Shipping and storage expenses

 

Student Emergency Aid Process

Students are considered for emergency funds by submitting a complete online application. Applications are reviewed Monday through Friday during the academic year. It may take multiple days for a response to your request. Funding cannot be guaranteed.

Please allow 4 business days for a response to funding requests. If a response is needed within 4 business days, please reach out to seasupport@holycross.edu directly, in addition to completing the online application.

In some cases, the emergency aid committee members may seek to connect students with additional student support services depending on the nature of the emergency. In those cases, a member of the committee will follow up directly with the student with additional information and resources that might be helpful for the student.