USU CHaSS Creates a Hardship Fund for Students

The Make It or Break It Fund helps students who are facing financial hardship by providing one-time assistance that can be used for a range of expenses such as car repairs or medical bills. Many students are financially precarious, and even a small surprise such as an unusually high heating bill or flat tire could threaten their ability to finish the semester or even to complete their degree at all. The fund was created about a decade ago by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences advancement board, and for many years board members were the sole donors to this fund. But last year COVID triggered hardship for many students: for example, causing those working in catering, restaurants, and hospitality to lose their jobs. So CHaSS created a website to invite applications from students and donations from anyone who could help. Before 2020, the Make It or Break It fund typically had a few thousand dollars at any one time, but last year the fund received approximately $46,000 in donations. With an average gift of $300, the Make It or Break It fund helped many students make it—and stay in school.

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