WOAY – US Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced Friday the potential of more than $66 million from the Department of Education to be given to higher-learning institutions in West Virginia.
This funding, made possible by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Securities (CARES) could be used to provide direct emergency cash grants to college students who have been directly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic though the discretion of their university or college.
Sen. Capito says, “This is an unprecedented interruption in their educational journey, and it is essential that we provide the support that they need. This funding from the CARES Act will help provide financial relief to students for expenses related to course materials, food, housing, healthcare, and childcare.”
Sen. Manchin adds, “In West Virginia, schools are transitioning to online classes and other virtual learning opportunities, but many students don’t have access to reliable broadband, making it nearly impossible to keep up with other students. The coronavirus pandemic caused sudden but necessary changes in every aspect of our lives.”
The potential amount an institution may receive under this program varies, with the amount for select schools listed below. Schools may choose to award Emergency Financial Grants to students from these funds.
West Virginia University – $20,174,232
Marshall University – $9,003,939
Concord University – $2,057,014
Bluefield State College – $1,296,174
New River Community and Technical College – $688,982
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine – $247,036
Appalachian Bible College – $238,981
Academy of Careers and Technology – $174,170
Fayette Institute of Technology – $106,163
Mercer County Technical Education Center – $105,541
