SIUC receives $200,000 grant to help students in need

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) – A program that helps Southern Illinois University Carbondale students with essential needs received a $200,000 grant.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s (SIUC) HEROES program assists with basic needs that could impair students’ ability to succeed in their academics. By receiving a $200,000 grant from Illinois Board of Higher Education the program can provide additional materials and services.

Higher Education Resources and Opportunities for Salukis in Need (HEROES) assists students with difficulties regarding housing or food insecurity or other financial or resource challenges, according to SIUC.

Jaime Clark, director of Student Health Services, says the grant will be used to subsidize housing for students with no place to stay during breaks and summer, cover costs of mental and physical health appointments and child care.

Additionally, the grant will be used to buy food, hygiene products, bedding, books, school supplies, cleaning items and clothing, for students in need. Laptops, mini-refrigerators, microwaves and air fryers will be purchased and lent as needed.

HEROES Headquarters is open 1-4:30 p.m. Monday and Friday, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday and 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Wednesday when classes are in session, according to SIUC. Access to the HEROES Store is by appointment only and the requested items form should be submitted.