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Supporting Students Through Unexpected Challenges 

The Student Relief Fund provides limited emergency financial assistance to currently enrolled students experiencing an unexpected hardship that may impact their ability to remain enrolled and succeed in college. 


The purpose of the Student Relief Fund is to help students address immediate financial barriers while connecting them to campus and community resources that promote long-term stability and academic success. Assistance is intended to support students facing unforeseen circumstances and is not designed to serve as ongoing financial support. 


Students seeking assistance must complete the Basic Needs Intake Form and meet with the Basic Needs Coordinator to discuss their situation, available resources, and potential support options. 

 

To be considered for Student Relief Fund assistance, students must: 

  • Be currently enrolled at Cuesta College.
  • Complete the Basic Needs Intake Form.
  • Meet with the Basic Needs Coordinator for assessment and resource navigation.
  • Provide supporting documentation when applicable.
  • Be experiencing a documented financial hardship or unexpected circumstance impacting their educational success.

Submission of an application does not guarantee funding. All requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are dependent on eligibility, available funding, and demonstrated need.

Examples of circumstances that may be considered include:

  • Unexpected housing-related emergencies
  • Rent assistance needs due to a sudden financial hardship
  • Utility shut-off notices or essential utility support
  • Emergency transportation needs
  • Vehicle repairs impacting a student's ability to attend classes or work
  • Medical, dental, or vision-related expenses
  • Loss of employment or significant reduction in work hours
  • Family emergencies, illness, or unexpected life events
  • Educational supplies required for course participation
  • Other unexpected circumstances affecting a student's ability to persist in college 

Student Relief Fund assistance is intended for one-time or short-term emergencies. 
Current funding guidelines include: 

  • Up to $300 per semester (Fall and Spring)
  • Maximum of $600 per academic year

Funding decisions are based on:

  • Documentation provided
  • Availability of funds
  • Impact on the student's educational success
  • Completion of required intake and assessment processes

Students requesting assistance for rent, utilities, transportation, vehicle repairs, or educational supplies are required to provide supporting documentation such as bills, invoices, estimates, quotes, or notices. Failure to provide documentation will result in a processing delay. 

After submitting the Basic Needs Intake Form: 

  1. Your submission will be reviewed by the Basic Needs Center. 
  2. The Basic Needs Coordinator will contact you to schedule an assessment appointment.
  3. During the appointment, your situation will be reviewed and resources will be explored.
  4. If appropriate, your request may be considered for Student Relief Fund assistance.
  5. You may be connected to additional campus and community resources to support your long-term success. 

Students experiencing urgent situations should indicate this within the intake process so the Basic Needs Center can prioritize outreach when appropriate. 

The Basic Needs Center may connect students with resources such as: 

  • CalFresh application assistance
  • Food Pantry services
  • Hygiene and wellness resources
  • Transportation support
  • Housing navigation and referrals
  • Financial Aid resources
  • Career and employment services
  • Mental health and wellness resources
  • Community-based assistance programs

Our goal is to help address your most immediate need while connecting you to resources that support your continued success at Cuesta College.

Apply for Assistance 

To be considered for Student Relief Fund assistance, complete the Basic Needs Intake Form. 
Please note: Funding is limited and not all requests will result in a financial award. Students may still be eligible for resource referrals, support services, and case management through the Basic Needs Center regardless of funding eligibility.