What are HEERF III Funds?
The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III (HEERF III) is authorized by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Public Law 117-2, signed into law on March 11, 2021, providing $39.6 billion in support to institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the COVID-19 pandemic. https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ope/arp.htmlMore information on HEERF III
One part of this federal program allocates money to the University of Florida, and a portion of that allocation can be awarded to students who are experiencing expenses due to the coronavirus.
Who is eligible for HEERF III Emergency Grants?
Students who are or were enrolled and who have the greatest financial need can be considered for these funds. International and DACA students are eligible for HEERF III funds.
How do I apply for a Federal Emergency Grant?
Information about applying for these funds will be emailed to eligible students when funding becomes available.
What constitutes eligible expenses to qualify for emergency funding?
This could apply to a variety of financial costs directly tied to the effects of an emergency situation that is straining UF students. This could include money spent for unanticipated travel, replacement of medications, emergency child care due to extended school closures, additional technology requirements, etc.
What kinds of expenses are allowable?
Funds can be used for food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, tuition, fees, or child care.
Do I have to repay a Federal Emergency Aid Grant?
Typically, you would not have to repay the amount awarded to you. The Federal Emergency Grant funds are designed to be a grant, not a loan.
Where are the funds coming from? Is there some sort of disaster relief fund?
The University of Florida has been awarded and has received funds from the federal American Rescue Plan (Public Law 117-2), which provides funding for emergency grants for eligible college students impacted by the coronavirus.
How will SFA disburse the money?
For students who have signed up for direct deposit with the https://www.fa.ufl.edu/directives/financial-aid-refunds/UF Bursar’s Office, funding will be sent to the student’s financial institution via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). To sign up, go to the https://one.uf.edu/campusfinances/directdepositOneUF Direct Deposit webpage and sign in with your Gatorlink username and password. Follow the instructions on the screen. For students not enrolled in direct deposit, checks will be mailed.
Would this funding reduce my financial aid?
No, this fund does not negate nor replace financial aid, and it is a one-time grant.
How much money is available for each applicant?
Amounts vary, but students must complete an on-line application and provide a signed statement describing their circumstances along with supporting documentation to substantiate their funding request. Maximum awards for fall 2021 are $1000 and for spring 2022 are $500.
What documentation is required to be submitted with the application?
This will depend on the individual claim. However, you should provide any documentation that is relevant to the specific financial need and hardship you experienced. Consider submitting copies of bills/paid invoices/receipts or official notifications from childcare or healthcare providers. If you are unsure about documentation, contact an SFA financial aid adviser for assistance at (352) 392-2244 or via email at mailto:sfa-help@mail.ufl.edusfa-help@mail.ufl.edu.
What additional resources are available if I need access to food?
UF students in the Gainesville area should check the https://pantry.fieldandfork.ufl.edu/UF Field & Fork Pantry website for information. https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/alachua_county_and_newberry_as.htmlAdditional Resources are available for food, clothing, utilities, and emergency financial services.
