Algoma U Emergency Fund helps 470 students during pandemic

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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Algoma University wishes to extend its sincere appreciation to all those who have generously supported the Student Emergency Fund (SEF). This past April, the University created the SEF to help students struggling with financial issues resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Advancement Department reached out to the Algoma University family of employees, alumni, campus unions, Board of Governors, and external communities in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, and Timmins. 

Over 470 students applied for assistance through this fund and, thanks to the generous response from donors, the SEF Committee has been able to directly assist 295 students with financial support while helping another 180 students access additional forms of assistance available to them through other sources.  

“During these times of uncertainty, these funds not only helped with the essentials but they brought back a sense of security I was lacking, thank you,” shared SEF recipient David Humes. 

Numerous donations were received from individuals, organized labour, community organizations, and corporate donors. As well, Algoma University’s Student Emergency Fund was one of the recipients supported through the Come Together Sault Ste. Marie virtual fundraising initiative. Brampton-based Inzola Construction Inc. made a generous contribution with Chairman John Cutruzzola noting, “our students are the future, we can’t abandon them when their needs are the greatest.”  

All surplus funds generated through the initial campaign will continue to support students. New funds will be flowed through the established Emergency Bursary to continue to support students who, along with a variety of other needs, continue to be impacted by COVID-19.  

Algoma University would like to extend sincere gratitude for the overwhelming kindness and generosity during these unprecedented times.

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