Our Response to COVID-19
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates
ScholarMatch is closely monitoring the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 and is taking extra precautions to prioritize the health and safety of our staff, students, and community. Beginning early March, we proactively made the decision to close our college drop-in centers in San Francisco and Los Angeles and have pivoted to providing all programs and services online. We will continue to update our website with any program or drop-in related changes as new information emerges.
Here is how we are supporting students during this time:
Virtual Office Hours
We are committed to providing critical college access support to students who rely on our services. However, due to changes in organizational resources and a reduction in funding, we are pausing Destination College services in Los Angeles for the 2021-22 academic year. SF Bay Area students will continue to have access to virtual support from ScholarMatch staff. Students already in our virtual program nationwide will continue to have access to their personal college coach.
Emergency Grants
Unfortunately, COVID-19 has created tremendous financial barriers for students and their families. To combat these financial hardships, our college students will have access to flexible emergency funding to help cover rent, bills and utilities, food and supplies, mental health support, and other needs.
Laptop Lending Program
Students who do not have access to reliable technology can apply to borrow a laptop from one of our college drop-in centers. Access to a computer is critical for students to attend online classes, work on homework assignments, and communicate with colleges and universities. Rising college freshmen will receive a $250 Technology Stipend to put towards the purchase of a laptop for Fall 2020.
Public Health Resources
Individuals with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice respiratory hygiene/cough etiquette including:
- Maintain social distancing and only leave your house for essential travel. When you are in public, be sure to stay at least 6 feet away other individuals.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol). Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid sharing personal items. Especially those that come into contact with saliva, such as toothbrushes and eating utensils.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, including door knobs and cell phone screens.
Stay Informed
Stay updated on the latest news regarding COVID-19 by frequently checking these websites:
- World Health Organization
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Access information about COVID-19 in 35+ different languages through the COVID-19 Health Literacy Project, in collaboration with Harvard Health Publishing