Financial Grants Available to Students for Technology Needs

July 30, 2020 – Last week, Massasoit Community College announced that the Emergency and Technology Grant Application is now open, and any Massasoit student enrolled in at least six credits for fall who has a technology need for the fall semester should apply. The application form is quick and grants are intended to cover the cost of a laptop or tablet, internet access, or a portable internet hotspot. Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and do not need to be repaid. Specific information about the Emergency and Technology Grant .

Like many schools, Massasoit’s fall courses will, for the most part, be delivered fully online, through video conferencing, or in a hybrid model (view those definitions). This means that, in order for students to be successful, they need adequate technology to participate in their coursework. A laptop, a Chromebook, or tablet, and reliable access to the internet are necessary, regardless of what students’ academic schedules look like.

“Some students might need to upgrade or replace their computer. Maybe their home computer is dedicated to their kids who are now home doing their own school work. Or, for many, a new device may simply be out of reach during this challenging time,” said Vice Provost for Student Affairs/Dean of Students Dr. Slandie Dieujuste. “Not having access to technology should not deter a student’s success in their classes – especially right now.”

Massasoit is committed to student success, and individuals with any questions about the Emergency and Technology Grant Application process or how else the college can support educational goals should contact: deanofstudents@massasoit.mass.edu.

The CARES Act, which established and funded the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, provided Massasoit with funding to distribute emergency financial and technology grants to students for financial challenges incurred as a result of COVID-19. Massasoit is, however, seeking help to fund and provide technology needs for non-CARES-eligible students. Anyone interested in assisting the Massasoit Foundation in providing funding to get computers into the hands of students who need them most can donate to the United Student Fund .

Students who are not eligible for CARES Act grants, including international students, undocumented students, and students with DACA are encouraged to complete an Emergency and Technology Grant Application if experiencing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19 as separate grant funding is available.