UMass Basic Needs Support

Give today to keep UMass students on track. Your gift provides hope in times of crisis.
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Support UMass Students in Times of Need

At UMass Amherst, we believe no student should have to choose between staying in school and handling an emergency. Yet, unforeseen expenses—like a medical crisis, a family loss, or a car breakdown—can derail a student’s education and future. 

The Student Care & Emergency Response Fund (SCERF) assists with emergencies and urgent needs. Recent examples include: 

  • House fires 
  • Travel for a death in the family 
  • Medical emergencies 
  • Sudden loss of income due to illness 
  • Car or computer breakdown 
  • Highly costly or unexpected course materials

Since Spring 2020, $771,993 has been given directly to over 1,200 students at their moment of need. Your gift makes a critical difference. It supports students in a crisis, to remain enrolled, maintain their well-being, and graduate. 

Here’s what one student shared:
"Having the chance to be helped and supported by programs like this has given me the enthusiasm and motivation to continue my education when everything just seemed difficult and impossible. It has provided me with great relief at hard times. I'm thankful for all the assistance I have obtained, and as a student I can say that it feels awesome to know you have a place to go when you're struggling in your financial life." 

Angel Fund

UMass Amherst established the Angel Fund in 2017 to provide critical support for students facing unexpected financial hardships due to changes in federal immigration policy. These challenges can affect legal, academic, housing, living, and counseling needs—areas essential to student success. 

Your gift to the Angel Fund empowers the Dean of Students Office to offer emergency grants to enrolled undergraduate and graduate students during times of crisis. These grants never need to be repaid and are awarded based on individual need and available resources. 

Every contribution makes a difference. By donating, you help ensure that UMass students can continue their education and feel supported during uncertain times. 

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to our students. Together, we can provide hope and stability when it’s needed most.

Your contribution to the Food Security Initiatives Fund directly supports the Campus Pantry. Every dollar helps ensure that members of our community can focus on learning, teaching, and working—without the stress of wondering where their next meal will come from. 

Together, We Can Nourish UMass