We understand that for many this may be a time of financial challenges. Western Seminary has a Benevolence Fund that was set up to help students during times of financial stress. If you find yourself in a position of needing financial assistance, you can connect directly with the Dean of Students, Andy Peloquin. We recognize that even this assistance may not meet all your immediate needs during this time. As we anticipate a greater need, we recommend the following additional resources :
- Connect with your local church and/or small group to let them know of your need. Even if you do not receive financial assistance, you will likely receive prayer or additional resources available within the church.
- Explore Western Seminary’s Financial Aid Resources for additional loans or starting new loans.
- Call 211 to find services in your community, including food programs, and to have your questions answered about coronavirus.
- Explore resources for lost wages, such as MoneyGeek’s Coronavirus Resource page.
- Explore bill and rent extensions. Portland and other city governments are already putting no eviction plans in place, and some companies are offering extended payment arrangements. Talk directly with a company’s customer service rep for assistance with outstanding bills.
California Students
See Covid19 Department of Public Health with links to employment questions and other resources. Also, check your local county or Congress member for resources on their websites.
- Pandemic Unemployment Insurance for self-employed and gig workers
Oregon Students
See Covid19 Emergency Resources compiled by Congressman Earl Blumenauer and his team in Portland.
- For students on SNAP and WIC, they continue to be important resources, especially for stocking up on food. If you’re impacted by Coronavirus, and considered an ABAWD, you may be able to waive the “time limit” on SNAP–contact your local DHS office, to talk to a representative about this.
- You can now use EBT to order food online through Amazon and Walmart for home delivery in Oregon. Please note that there are delivery fees (which SNAP benefits cannot pay for).
- Oregon Food Bank will be keeping its Find Food page updated as pantries’ emergency hours and operations change. Keep checking the page for up-to-date information about the closest food pantry in your area.
- Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon – USDA food boxes are available in the Portland Metro area, Keizer and Salem. These may overlap with Oregon Food Bank listings. Read pick up guides prior to going. For example, for those in Washington County, you may also need to sign up ahead of time thru Care to Share.
- Pandemic Unemployment Assistance for self-employed and gig workers
- Oregon Law Help – COVID-19 specific resources on housing protections, stimulus assistance, and more.