SFU has programs and services that can help

With alarming speed, COVID-19 has turned our world upside down. For many students it’s been an especially difficult and stressful time. I’ve heard from students worried about how they are going to pay the bills, find work, or just get back home. And I know those worries are affecting the health and well-being of many in our community.

If you are having trouble coping and require assistance, SFU has programs and people in place to help you navigate through this crisis. Services we offer include emergency financial aid, professional counselling, spiritual support, help accessing technology, and employment assistance.

Information about these and other supports can be found on the Student Services website. And to assist you accessing them, you can speak with a Student Services Case Manager who will work with you to get the help you need. Case Managers can be reached by emailing student_support@sfu.ca.  

I am also heartened to see our community rallying to help students in need. We recently launched the SFU Student Urgent Response Fund that has already received significant support from the SFU community. Those who would like to make a donation can do so here.

The Simon Fraser Student Society has also created a $150,000 fund to help students facing sudden emergencies due to the COIVID-19 crisis. You can read more about it on the SFSS website.

And the "We gotchu" website created by SFU’s Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue is a one-stop resource center for people under 30 that includes helpful information on a variety of services and resources. I encourage you to check it out.

In addition, we are working with other post-secondary institutions to advocate for students with both the federal and provincial governments. The Province has responded with emergency student financial aid and support for Indigenous students. Both governments have implemented an interest-free moratorium on the repayment of student loans. And with millions of Canadians out of work, we are pressing Ottawa to come through with anticipated programs to support students in need of part-time, co-op or summer work, or who are graduating into a very challenging job market.

This effort is unlike any in our history.  And I want to thank you again for your patience and your perseverance.  As we approach the long weekend, I also want to remind students, and everyone in our SFU community, to play close attention to the orders of the Provincial Health Officer. To protect ourselves and others, it’s vital that we adhere to the rules of social distancing. So please, stay at home, don’t travel, and when you go outdoors, keep at least six feet from others. And if you are in need of help, don’t be afraid to ask. You are an important part of the SFU community, and your health and well-being are our primary concern.