We Care Fund

Rockland Community College has created the We Care Fund to support its students during the coronavirus pandemic and mitigate disruption to their studies. Funding is available through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Higher Education Emergency Relief Funding.

The application period has closed for We Care Funds.

Student Eligibility

Eligible RCC students include those who are matriculated in a degree or certificate program at the College during the award period, have filed a 2019/20 or 2020/21 FAFSA, and are deemed to be potentially eligible for federal student aid. Students who have not previously completed a FAFSA are encouraged to file a FAFSA application immediately.

Allowable Costs

Allowable expenses include:

  • food
  • housing
  • utilities
  • course materials
  • technology
  • health care
  • child care

Award Range

Based upon the student’s request for funding, the College will make an initial We Care Fund award equal to the student’s requested amount up to $1,000 for Pell-eligible applicants and up to $500 for non-Pell-eligible applicants. After the priority deadline, available funding will be re-assessed and additional awards may be made. The maximum award per student is $6,195.

Award Periods:

  • Spring 2020
    • Priority Deadline is June 26, 2020
    • Application closed August 31, 2020
  • Summer 2020
    • Priority Deadline is August 11, 2020
    • Application closed November 18, 2020
  • Fall 2020
    • Priority Deadline is October 2, 2020
    • Application closed March 12, 2021

Application Process

Students in need will make their requests known to the College by completing an online application. The College will review all requests on a rolling basis and provide initial awards on a weekly basis. Awards will be posted and paid through the student’s account, but will be unaffected by any outstanding charges. That is, 100% of all We Care Fund awards will go directly to students. Please click the following button or the one at the top of the page to apply.

For additional information

For more information, contact [email protected] or call 845-574-4282.

View the CARES ACT Campus Plan.

View the CARES Act reporting page.