Emergency Support and Resources
When you’re a college student, an unexpected financial setback can significantly hinder your academic success. The Dean of Students office supports you and is here to assist during difficult times. Our mission is to help connect students in need to resources both on campus and in our community that can ease unexpected financial burdens that challenge your ability to earn your degree.
We have compiled a list of some of our more utilized emergency support programs and community resources. Program funding is limited and distributed on a case-by-case basis. You must be a current UAFS student with at least a 2.0 GPA to qualify for the Student Emergency Assistance Program, Rescue Scholarship, and Completion Grant. Additional requirements and restrictions apply. Don’t hesitate to contact the Dean of Students Office for complete details.
Emergency Resources
Shelf-stable food items are available at any time at the Dave Stevens Lion Pride Pantry, located on the west side of the Recreation and Wellness Center. The pantry is open 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Eligible patrons can visit the pantry once per week for food, school supplies, and household and personal care items.
Students with an emergent or unexpected non-school-related expense can apply to this program. Funds are provided through the generosity of UAFS friends and alumni through the UAFS Foundation. Applicants must be able to document their emergency and inability to secure funding from other sources. Eligibility requirements and program information are available through NUMALink. Learn more by signing in to your NUMALink account and searching for "Student Emergency Assistance Program."
Rescue Scholarships
Students who have outstanding balances after all other financial aid has been exhausted may be eligible for a Rescue Scholarship. Scholarship amounts are generally less than $500 and depend on available funds. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 GPA. Additional eligibility requirements apply.
Completion Grants
UAFS students within two semesters of completing their credential but with inadequate financial support to continue may be eligible for a Completion Grant. Grants are distributed on a case-by-case basis and are dependent upon available funds. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 GPA. Additional eligibility requirements apply.
The Babb Center for Career Services’ Career Clothes Closet is available for current students who need attire for job and internship interviews or classroom presentations. Available professional attire includes gently used business suits for men and women, button-down shirts, blouses, ties, and shoes. Access to the Career Clothing Closet is free for all students by appointment.
Enrolled students in need of emergency housing may be eligible for a temporary room (up to three days) in Sebastian Commons. This program is available on a case-by-case basis and depends upon room availability. Contact the UAFS Dean of Students Office for additional details.
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Student Counseling Center is committed to treating our students’ psychiatric, behavioral, and emotional needs. UAFS students enrolled in credit courses, including UAF Engineering and ROTC programs, can receive up to eight counseling sessions each year at no charge. Visit the UAFS Counseling Center web page for additional details or to make an appointment.
The Powell Student Health Clinic is a free resource for enrolled students (except for WATC, concurrent, and health care-eligible employees) for many health and wellness-related issues. Visit the Powell Student Health Clinic web page for services and clinic hours.
UAFS students have access to additional support through Fort Smith's community organizations, such as:
- United Way of Fort Smith: This organization provides assistance for individuals facing unemployment, food and housing insecurity, legal concerns, transportation needs, and more. To explore these resources, visit the United Way of Fort Smith's webpage, select "Community," and navigate to the "Community Resource Guide."
For additional information or guidance, contact the UAFS Dean of Students Office.