The Government Shutdown and Our SNHU Community
Posted on January 15, 2019
As the shutdown of the federal government continues with no immediate end in sight, we want to make sure we are doing all we can to support any of our students, faculty, and staff that may be impacted. We have had some inquiries and questions and because no one item stands out, it’s hard to give blanket guidance. Every situation is different.
What we do know unequivocally is that no one should have to go hungry, risk a loss of housing, or go without basic human needs because of the political impasse in Washington.
To help with this need, we have set up a $1 million emergency fund to assist members of the SNHU community, students or employees, facing immediate financial crisis caused by the shutdown of the government. This aid will take the form of direct grants with no repayment. Those eligible are:
- Currently enrolled SNHU students who are also federal employees and not receiving a paycheck because of the government shutdown;
- Currently enrolled SNHU students whose spouse or partner is a federal employee not receiving a paycheck because of the government shutdown;
- Currently enrolled SNHU students who are dependents of a federal employee not receiving a paycheck because of the government shutdown;
- SNHU employees whose spouse or partner is a federal employee not receiving a paycheck because of the government shutdown.
Those needing assistance can apply starting Thursday, January 17. For all students, faculty, and staff interested in applying for funds, check your snhu.edu email for additional details or contact your advisor. We will require documentation of the federal employee status of the person and documentation of the need.
In addition, a few related items have surfaced:
- If you are receiving federal financial aid or Pell Grants, the shutdown will not impact your funding. Federal financial aid for the 2018-19 school year was fully funded and money for Pell Grants is mandatory.
- The federal student aid office is still up and running, so students can still file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, if you are having trouble accessing forms or necessary documentation for financial aid, our student financial services team is available to help.
- GI Bill benefits have continued, but support for claims and other assistance may be limited. If you have seen delays in payments or application processing, please contact your advisor.
As the shutdown continues, your needs may change. Call on us – we are committed to our students and employees and will continue to support you whenever possible.