The Foundation for Oklahoma City Community College (FFOCCC) last week announced new availability of more than $200,000 in student aid. Secured through gifts by generous donors, including grants from the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, the Arnall Family Foundation and Boeing, these funds will help existing students pay off debt and secure scholarships or emergency aid amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The last year has been really tough for students,†said OCCC Interim President Dr. Jeremy Thomas, who recommended the release of these funds. “Some have lost their jobs, been sick or had to care for loved ones. It’s my desire to help when we can, and hopefully these funds will help our students complete their education, and progress towards the future they want for themselves and their families.â€
The funds will assist students as follows:
• Up to $25,000 in President’s Partners funds will OCCC’s currently-enrolled students who meet specific criteria eliminate up to $500 in debt, allowing them to continue with Spring classes..
• Up to $50,000 in President’s Partners funds will OCCC’s currently-enrolled students receive scholarships. Half of these funds have been offered to students now, Spring 2021, and the other half will be offered Fall 2021. This amount is in addition to the nearly $200,000 in scholarship funds FFOCCC has already offered to students in the past year.
• More than $125,000 in COVID-19 Emergency Student Aid funds are being distributed to current students. Students have applied for $250 in aid to assist with bills, groceries or other hardships faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Foundation for OCCC is so pleased to provide significant, additional funding to our students who have suffered financially during the COVID-19 pandemic,†said FFOCCC Executive Director Von Allen. “Our thoughtful and generous donors have allowed us to keep the dreams of a better life alive for our students, and we’re exceptionally grateful.â€
The Foundation for Oklahoma City Community College is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization formed in 1998 by a group of community and business leaders who wanted to encourage private support for Oklahoma City Community College. In fiscal year 2020, The Foundation awarded approximately $200,000 in scholarships, and nearly $100,000 in emergency grants, to more than 350 students experiencing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information and opportunities, visit GivetoOCCC.org or phone 405-682-7591.