FIU Ignite ready to assist university members in need due to COVID-19

By Todd Ellenberg

As the world wrestles with the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are feeling the impact – globally, nationally and within the university community.

Student Assistance

FIU Ignite—the university's faculty and staff fundraising campaign—is prepared to assist students, faculty and staff who are in need of economic support during this challenging time. 

Many students live paycheck to paycheck; social distancing may have a serious effect on their finances. Panther Protection: FIU Paying it Forward will provide assistance to students facing difficulties that threaten to interrupt their education. Grants are coordinated thorough the Office of Student Scholarships.

In 2019-2020, 44 Panther Protection Grants totaling $46,875 were awarded; and, in 2018-2019, five grants totaling $4,245 were awarded. Grants averaged $700 to $1,000 and were used for tuition, temporary housing, living expenses, food and car repairs.

Faculty & Staff Assistance

The University Hardship Fund provides emergency financial assistance to faculty and staff who have exhausted other avenues for obtaining assistance. The fund is sponsored by the Tender Loving Care (TLC) Brigade and grants are coordinated through the Office of Employee Assistance. 

The University Hardship Fund provides grants for emergencies arising from variety of situations, including critical injuries and acute illnesses, a home fire and death of an immediate family member. The fund has disbursed 14 grants totaling $13,309.

Thanks to the generous support these funds receive, the university has been able to assist members of the FIU community meet their most urgent needs. To support these critical Ignite funds today, visit:

• Panther Protection: FIU Paying it Forward
• University Hardship Fund