Del Mar distributed $104,500 in emergency aid to 340 students in 2023, according to Associate Vice President of Development Matthew Busby. With a recent change to the program, that number is expected to jump this year.
Initially students applying for Emergency Aid needed minimum cumulative grade point average, or GPA, of 2.0 to 2.5.
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Now students, both new and returning, have the chance to apply and receive funds on a case-by-case basis.
“We know students face crises that are unexpected, and, in that moment, they don’t have time to wait for FASFA. They need a quick … ‘yes’ or ‘no,’” Busby said.
Student log on to the Del Mar website, type “Emergency Aid,” click the link and fill out information.
Applications are accepted 24/7 with decisions made within 48 hours with the funding made immediately available to students in variety of ways including Zelle, direct deposit, virtual or a physical prepaid card.
Students in need can request funds of up to $500.
Once the information is entered, students are required to check their email for a statement that’s approval or denied. If approved, there’s an agreement and accepting of the funds. Those who are denied can try again.
The donations come from personal funds of those who want to help.
Libby Averyt, CEO of United Way of Coastal Bend, donates monthly.
“After my late husband, Charles Kaffie Jr., died, I established a fund at the foundation in his honor to benefit the Emergency Aid and have contributed to that fund ever since,” Averyt said.
Averyt and Kaffie understood that unexpected financial situations arise, and life can get difficult without financial help.
“… our donations … help those students who didn’t have the advantages that both of us do. Most of us need a little help at some point in our lives; I’m grateful to aid,” Averyt said.
Some students who have received emergency funds find time to thank those who have provided the financial help.
According to Averyt she has received regular thank you cards from Del Mar foundation and students who received funds.
For those who are looking to donate visit give.delmar.edu/giveEA, where donors can see the link to make a donation.
If you find yourself in an economical pinch, contact the DMC Foundation at foundation@delmar.edu or 361-698-1317.
