Unexpected emergencies can derail even the most prepared students. Each year, Ithaca College students face sudden challenges —illness, job loss, or changes in family circumstances — that make it difficult to cover essentials like housing, medical bills, or emergency travel home. The Student Emergency Relief Fund (SERF) steps in during these critical moments, helping students overcome unforeseen setbacks so they can stay enrolled and focused on their education.
Since its creation in 2020, SERF has provided more than $235,700 in financial assistance to students in need. In the 2024–2025 academic year alone, we received 318 requests for support and were able to assist 219 students, awarding nearly $39,529 ($13,200 in vouchers, $26,521) in funding in the form of cash awards and course materials vouchers. This year, requests have continued to rise — making your support more important than ever. Your gift helps ensure that a temporary crisis does not become a permanent barrier for our students to continue their journey at IC.
Testimonials
"At the start of the year, I was in great need of purchasing school materials, and paying for online interactive books was quite expensive and beyond my budget. I filled out the form, and the funds I received were incredibly helpful. I truly appreciate the emergency relief fund." - anonymous student
"This semester, I utilized the Student Emergency Relief Fund after being hit with unexpected, hefty medical expenses. I am currently working over 20 hours a week to contribute to my tuition, and these unexpected costs were a tremendous stressor. I'm unsure how I would have managed to pay my tuition if it were not for the Student Emergency Relief Fund. The Student Emergency Relief Fund prevented me from being set off-course by unexpected expenses and gave me the assistance I needed to focus on my studies. I am grateful for this invaluable program, both for myself and for my peers who will undoubtedly benefit from this fund." - anonymous student
"I am a student at Ithaca College who received support from the Student Emergency Relief Fund (SERF). I feel incredibly fortunate because this funding was something I truly needed. As an international student, I have two jobs, live off-campus, and cover all my own bills. However, sometimes the expenses add up, and keeping up without outside support can be challenging. Receiving the Student Emergency Relief Fund was a huge relief, giving me the breathing room I needed to catch up. I am very grateful for this support." - anonymous student
