MALTA — Kishwaukee College is making $1,203,715 in direct cash payments to students enrolled for the spring 2022 semester.

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds are part of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF) — a COVID-19 relief initiative from the federal government. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in spring 2020, Kishwaukee College has provided $4,259,570 in direct payments and services to students to help offset the financial hardships of the pandemic. In addition to cash payments to students, the college has provided enhanced support services through free textbooks, childcare and transportation for students.

“The federal COVID relief funds have been a financial lifeline for our students in their ability to continue to attend Kish during the pandemic,” Dr. Laurie Borowicz, president of Kishwaukee College, said.

For Justin Williams, a student-worker in his second semester at Kish, the payments help keep him from taking on debt as he pursues a nursing degree. Williams said every little bit helps as his household manages medical bill payments for a family member battling cancer.

“For me, it helps a lot. It gives me a big cushion for my expenses like gas, food, books or other bills,” Williams said. “I wouldn’t be able to afford most of the things I have without the money Kish has sent.”

Austen Wojtasik, a student completing an associate in arts degree this semester, said this payment and previous direct payments have helped relieve some of the financial pressure of pursuing a degree during the pandemic.

“As someone paying tuition out of pocket, it is nice to know that I will be able to save for my future and not stress about costs. It makes it easier to budget for things like rent and utilities,” Wojtasik said.

Students received the payment the week of Feb. 14 by direct deposit or mail. Payments are based on financial need, the number of credit hours each student is taking and the tuition rate for their courses.

“We feel fortunate to be able to use the HEERF funds to assist our students with costs of attending college at this time where COVID-19 is still affecting their lives,” Dr. Michelle Rothmeyer, vice president of student services, said. “Financial barriers can be an issue for many, and we know these payments allow Kishwaukee College students the opportunity to complete their educational goals.”

For questions about Kish’s direct payments, contact student services at onestop@kish.edu. For more information on Kish’s COVID-19 relief funding, visit kish.edu/heerf.