Lehigh Carbon Community College students who have been affected by COVID-19 will have access to grants through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act that is part of the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund.

The college has received nearly $2 million to be used for emergency grants to students who experience unexpected educational expenses or experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic while a student at LCCC.

Students with a variety of needs can apply for these grants.

Examples include computer and software purchases, Internet access fees, books and supplies.

In addition, grants can also assist with expenses such as food, housing, utility and transportation costs and child and health care.

Students can apply only once for a grant. Funding is limited and is not guaranteed.

Students will need to include detail of the expenses incurred.

Grants will not count toward the Estimated Financial Assistance, and financial need as determined by the FAFSA will not be a factor in award amounts.

Students need to file a FAFSA and meet Title IV eligibility requirements to qualify.

Students must be currently enrolled in the spring semester or have enrolled in the summer or fall semesters.

The college has established guidelines for award amounts, which will be awarded on a case-by-case basis, with the total not to exceed a maximum of $6,195 per student.

•Childcare, maximum $500;

•Food/meals, maximum $500;

•Housing and utility costs, maximum $1,000;

•Technology related expenses, maximum $1,500;

•Books and supplies, maximum $1,000; and

•Transportation costs, maximum $500.

To apply, students need to complete an online application at LCCC.edu/scholarships.

For additional information, contact the Financial Aid Office at finaid@mymail.lccc.edu.