IG Lewis Student Emergency Fund

IG Lewis Student Emergency Fund
The I.G. Lewis Student Emergency Fund provides short term assistance for SAIT students who experience a financial crisis that threatens the successful completion of their studies. Unlike other bursaries, students do not apply to the fund. SAIT instructors and staff are informed that the fund is available and are asked to be on the lookout for students who may need help. They keep an eye out for students whose academic performance suddenly drops, who go from perfect attendance to many unexplained absences or for students who appear tired and demonstrate chronic tardiness. When SAIT instructors or staff identify students who appear to be at risk, they are referred to a “mentor.” A meeting is arranged where the mentor assesses their needs. After this determination, the mentor explains that aid is forthcoming and is provided in a timely fashion. The student is eligible to receive an amount that serves their immediate need as agreed upon with the mentor – from a $50 grocery store voucher, to a few hundred dollars, up to thousands of dollars if needed. The mentor also determines if students require other services such as academic counselling and, if so, arranges additional referrals for SAIT services. After assistance is provided, mentors follow up to make sure the student is back on track.
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