PCC Receives Grant to Assist Students Facing Emergencies

WINTERVILLE—Pitt Community College has received a $35,000-grant from the state to help students facing unforeseen financial emergencies continue their enrollment and complete their programs of study.

This summer, Gov. Roy Cooper unveiled North Carolina’s new Finish Line Grant Program, saying the initiative’s purpose is to help students ‘cross the finish line and graduate.’ PCC Director of Grants Management Julie R. Crippen said following Cooper’s announcement, Pitt teamed with its local workforce development board to apply for grant funding.

On its website, the N.C. Department of Commerce states that Finish Line Grants can be used for course materials, housing, medical needs, dependent care, or other financial emergencies that students face through no fault of their own.

Crippen says students who have completed at least 75 percent of their degree, diploma or certificate programs may apply for Finish Line funding if they are facing an unexpected financial emergency. Students who have completed at least 75 percent of a Continuing Education certification are also eligible to apply, she said, adding that applications are available through PCC’s Student Development Services Division, financial aid and grant offices, and the PCC Foundation.

“Amounts vary up to $1,000 each semester, as long as students qualify by regularly attending classes and are in good standing at the college,” Crippen said. “Students will receive the scholarship through Ross (Innovative Employment Solutions Corp.) and NCWorks and will become eligible for their job assistance coaching skills at the same time.”

For more information, contact the NCWorks Career Center at (252) 355-9067, ext. 203.

10/08/2018