Not surprisingly, the COVID-19 outbreak is creating increasingly challenging situations for Native scholars as they seek to complete their degrees. It is also creating new barriers to health, wellness and academic success. Even before this crisis, 62% of scholars experienced food insecurity and 69% were housing insecure. And on top of that, many students don't have access to a personal computer and Internet.
We already know Native scholars are poised for success, and now more than ever, we need to provide the tools to get them there. Whether it be a laptop, access to healthy food or the financial resources they need to find a safe place to live, our Emergency Relief Fund will help Native scholars overcome barriers so they can stay in school and on the paths they are determined to follow.