Brookdale Community College in Lincroft doled out more than $2 million in debt relief to 1,600-plus students to lift their financial restrictions of applying for upcoming classes.
The gifts, announced Jan. 20, were funded by the American Rescue Plan’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. The college paid off balances accrued during the pandemic from spring 2020 through fall 2021, and as a result, those students now have a zero-account balance.
“Having all financial restrictions lifted, will enable the students to continue their educational journey and pursue their dreams,” said Vice President of Student Affairs Yesenia Madas.
The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III was signed into law in March 2021 to provide $39.6 billion to institutions of higher education to serve students and ensure learning continues during the pandemic.
Throughout the pandemic, Brookdale has allocated over $12 million HEERF funds directly to students to support their education, the college said.
