Copiah-Lincoln Community College will receive a grant to provide relief from COVID-19 to its students.

The Woodward Hines Education Foundation gifted the Mississippi Community College Foundation with a $310,000 grant. The funds will be issued to the state’s 15 community colleges, Co-Lin included.

The purpose of the grant is to assist qualifying students who have been affected by COVID-19 to stay on track for graduation.

“These are difficult times for students who are trying to adjust to the many personal and educational challenges brought on by COVID-19,” said Ronnie Nettles, Executive Director of the Mississippi Community College Foundation and former Co-Lin President. “We are delighted to partner with the Woodward Hines Education Foundation to help these students.”

Funds can be used for costs related to in-home internet access, fuel, tablet or computer loans or other costs that may be a barrier to finishing college.

Community college campuses have been shut down across Mississippi due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Many campuses have required students to move out of their residence halls and return home.

This poses difficulties for some, as many homes in rural Mississippi don’t have access to high speed internet.

“We know that many of Mississippi’s community college students are already vulnerable to unexpected financial hurdles,” said Jim McHale, WHEF president and CEO. “We viewed this as an emergent opportunity to provide immediate financial support to Mississippi’s two-year college students impacted by COVID-19, so they would not be forced to put their education on hold for financial reasons.”

Co-Lin switched to an online class format March 23 and will remain that way indefinitely for the 2019-2020 school year. All summer courses will be offered in an online class format.

“Co-Lin is extremely grateful for this generous contribution from Woodward Hines Education Foundation,” said Co-Lin President Jane Hulon. “The funding will help to meet needs and eliminate barriers for many students who have faced technology challenges during this unprecedented time.”

 

Story by Gracie Byrne