Student Emergency Support

Your well-being is our priority.

We understand that unexpected challenges can happen while you're at Michigan Tech. The Dean of Students Office is here to help you through difficult situations and connect you with support. Whether you're facing a financial hardship, an urgent need for food or supplies, or another personal emergency, there are resources that can help. 

Why You Should Contact Us

The Dean of Students Office is here to help if you are experiencing significant challenges with:

  • Academic difficulty
  • Emotional distress or extreme stress
  • Health concerns
  • Family issues affecting your academic performance

Email

deanofstudents@mtu.edu

Phone

906-487-2212

When to Contact Us

Academic Year

Monday–Friday

8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Summer

Monday–Friday

7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

After Hours and Weekends

Call Public Safety and Police Services at 906-487-2216 and they will contact the on-call staff member.


Financial Help

If you are facing an unexpected financial crisis due to unforeseen circumstances, you may be eligible for University assistance. These funds are not intended to pay for tuition or standard school supplies but can help with emergencies like:

  • unexpected medical bills
  • travel costs for emergencies
  • sudden loss of federal or state provided assistance

Assistance typically does not exceed $500.

Emergency Assistance Grants

The following funds are available to undergraduate and graduate students experiencing a financial emergency. There is a single application for all three grants.

Apply for an Emergency Grant

Grant Eligibility Criteria

  • You must first contact Financial Aid to explore your financial aid options.
  • You must be currently enrolled in classes at the time of application.
    • During summer semesters, you must have been enrolled in the previous spring semester.
  • You must provide documentation related to the financial emergency.
  • You may be granted an emergency fund request once per calendar year.
  • Emergencies do not include planned events (like wedding travel), tuition, or textbook costs.

Graduate School Emergency Loan

The Graduate School offers an emergency loan program specifically for graduate students. This fund uses a separate application, and funds must be repaid. Learn more about the Graduate School Emergency Fund (Loan Program).

Apply for a Graduate School Emergency Loan


Food and Clothing Help

HuskyFAN (Food Access Network)

HuskyFAN is Michigan Tech’s on-campus food pantry, here to support students who are facing food insecurity. We provide a welcoming and confidential environment to help you get the food you need.

Free items available through HuskyFAN include:

  • Fully stocked pantry
    • Fresh and frozen foods (when available)
    • Non-perishable food items (like pasta, cereal, canned goods)
  • Personal care and hygiene products
  • 24/7 emergency meals
  • Farmers market tokens (during summer months)
  • Campus meals (meal swipes)

How to Access HuskyFAN

The pantry is available to everyone. You can find locations, open hours, and details on how to use the pantry on the HuskyFAN website.

Visit the HuskyFAN Website

Other Food Resources

The Husky Closet Collective

The Husky Closet Collective is a free, donation-based service for all Michigan Tech students. It includes three programs to help you find the clothing you need, from everyday items to professional outfits.

  • The Clothing Closet: Provides free, new, and gently used everyday items like jeans, shoes, tops, and winter coats.
  • The Career Closet: Get free, gently used business clothing for Career Fair, interviews, or internships. This special event is usually held the weekends before each Career Fair.
  • Gowns for Grads: This program allows you to borrow graduation regalia (cap and gown) for free.

Visit the Husky Closet Collective

Other Clothing and Household Resources

The following local stores offer clothing and household items for free or at a low cost.


Health and Medical Help

Hospitalization

If you are hospitalized, call us at 906-487-2212 or email us so we can notify your instructors and coordinate support.

Health and Well-being Resources

Find health and well-being resources available to you throughout the campus and local community.

Student Insurance

Information on your health insurance options, if needed.

Payment Plans

If you have large medical bills, most hospitals offer payment plans. Contact the Dean of Students office if you need help connecting with the right department.


Local Resources

  • Findhelp.org: A comprehensive site to find local help for food, housing, and other needs based on your zip code.
  • MI Bridges: Michigan residents can apply for healthcare, food assistance, and emergency relief.
  • Love INC of the Copper Country: Assists with furniture, linens, personal care items, and more.
  • Hancock Salvation Army: Can help with food, emergency housing, utilities, and other needs.