Navigating Unexpected Financial Emergencies

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

At Laurier, there are several programs which are designed to support students in meeting basic needs such as food, housing and supplies.

On-Campus Basic Needs Supports

  • Gently Used Household Goods and School Items: 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.  

Dean of Students Emergency Funding

The Leanne Holland Brown Emergency Fund provides emergency funding to eligible students who, as a 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 and is not intended to subsidize the cost of tuition, student fees, or existing debt. 

Students can reach out to 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 Supports

  • Financial Coaching Appointment: For personalized money management support, students may wish to schedule a virtual financial coaching appointment.  Discuss your current financial situation with an on-campus professional and leave the appointment with tangible action items and resources.
  • Academic Options: Reducing your course load or taking some time away from school can be a helpful option to save money for tuition, rent, or other expenses. Connect with your academic advisor or program coordinator to discuss course load reduction or if you are eligible to take some time away from your studies

Part-Time Employment

  • 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. Applications open in August. 
  • Jobs on Campus: For sustainable financial support, you may wish to find part-time work on campus to supplement your income. You can find a list of departments that hire students at Jobs on Campus and Navigator is Laurier's database for job opportunities on-campus and in the community.

Personal Support 

Having a supportive network is important during challenging times, and for many people that includes talking with friends, relatives, or a personal counsellor. However, discussing finances can be difficult, even with those closest to you, and may create tension or discomfort in relationships. When money feels hard to talk about, connecting with a trained professional can be helpful in managing its impact on your mental health. 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.