Navigating Unexpected Financial Challenges 

In the face of unexpected financial emergencies, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed. Please know you do not have to walk this journey alone. If you are experiencing an unexpected financial crisis, there are several supports and options that may be helpful. Some of these resources related to meeting basic needs, financial support, and personal support are listed below. 

Meeting Basic Needs

In the midst of financial difficulty, the ability to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and supplies, is often one of the first areas of student life that sees a significant impact. At Laurier, there are several programs which are designed to support students in meeting basic needs.

Free Food Programs: There are a variety of coordinated food access programs available on campus to combat student food insecurity. These include a student food bank for pantry essentials, a pay-what-you-can grocery store for prepared food, weekly grocery and hygiene product giveaways, breakfast programs, and more. All food access programs on campus are listed at the Food Security webpage.

The Freestore: Available on the Brantford and Waterloo campus, "the Freestore" allows students to shop at no charge for household goods and school items including small appliances, kitchenware, dishes, décor, and office supplies. Students may take any items they need and are encouraged to return any good condition items when finished with them. Learn more about the Freestore.

Dean of Students Emergency Funding: The Leanne Holland Brown Emergency Fund is able to provide emergency funding to eligible students who, as result of an unforeseen financial crisis or financial difficulties, are experiencing significant distress related to their personal well-being and/or safety. This fund is intended to act as a last resort in addressing short-term financial emergencies that impact immediate needs such as rent, food, and other living or medical expenses, and is not able to be used to subsidize the cost of tuition or student fees. Students must be currently registered in courses to be eligible. Students can reach out to a staff member in the Dean of Students Office for more information about the application process. 

Supplementary Financial Support

Part of managing financial emergencies is understanding and using the resources and options available around you to come up with a plan for next steps. At Laurier, there are a variety of supports and options which can contribute to a comprehensive plan for recovery.

Financial Coaching Appointment:  For personalized money management support, students may wish to schedule a virtual financial coaching appointment with Laurier's Financial Literacy Specialist.  Financial coaching focuses on improving financial behaviour and habits and provides students with an opportunity to discuss their current financial situation and will leave the appointment with tangible action items and resources. Learn more at the Financial Coaching website.

Work-Study Program:  The Work Study Program is available for students experiencing financial difficulties and who wish to work on a part-time basis. Students must be registered full-time at Laurier and must show financial need.  Online applications open in August at the Work Study Program website.

Jobs on Campus : Navigator is Laurier's online database for on-campus job opportunities as well as some jobs in the community.  You are also welcome to contact individual departments regarding job opportunities, and you can find a list of departments that hire students at Jobs on Campus.

Academic Options: Depending on your program, reducing your course load or taking some time away from school can be a helpful option to save for tuition, rent, or other expenses. If this is something about which you are interested in learning, you can contact your academic advisor or program coordinator to see if you are eligible for a leave of absence for one or multiple terms or to discuss the academic implications of reducing your course load.

Funding Opportunities: To explore additional funding opportunities for future terms, students can connect with the Student Awards team to explore applying to future scholarships, awards, and bursaries. Find more information at the Student Awards webpage or by contacting Service Laurier. Additionally, if you are a current or former youth from care, you may be eligible for funding through the Learners from Care Academic Success program.

Personal Support

It is essential to have a supportive network during challenging times. For many, this may look like speaking with with friends, family members, or a personal counsellor. However, finances can be sometimes be difficult to talk about, especially with friends or family. Often a helpful alternative is speaking to a trained professional. If you would like to book an appointment to meet with a personal counsellor, you can do so at the Student Wellness Centre.

If you would like to discuss any of these resources in more detail, or if you would like assistance in coming up with a plan for support moving forward, please reach out to the Dean of Students Office for support.