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Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We've got answers. Our frequently asked questions page provides detailed information about Fast Fund at MATC, including how our programs work, who is eligible for assistance, and how you can get involved. Find the answers you need and learn more about how we support MATC students. 

General Fast Fund Questions

Is Fast Fund the same as the MATC Emergency Assistance Grant?

No, Fast Fund is separate from the MATC Emergency Assistance Grant. The Emergency Assistance Grant is located in the Student Resource Center, S Building, on the second floor or is available here. Fast Fund is not affiliated with MATC, our financial aid can be received in addition to other MATC or Financial Aid programs.

What financial challenges can Fast Fund help me with?

 Fast Fund helps students cover urgent and unexpected financial hardships that may impact their ability to stay in school. Eligible needs may include, but are not limited to:

  • Tuition or fees that prevent continued enrollment

  • Childcare expenses

  • Food insecurity or groceries

  • Textbooks and school supplies

  • Transportation needs, such as bus passes or car repairs

  • Emergency housing or utility shut-off notices

  • Medical or mental health-related expenses

  • Technology access, such as laptops or Wi-Fi

  • Family or personal emergencies
     

Please note: While we aim to be flexible, Fast Fund does not cover routine, ongoing, or planned expenses.

How much can Fast Fund cover financially?

The amount you may receive is determined based on your specific financial need and available funding. Fast Fund typically provides small emergency grants (our average grant size is $300) ; larger requests need to be finalized by our Executive Director.

How many times can I receive aid from Fast Fund?

The goal is to support students with temporary financial hardships, so repeated requests may be denied. Please reach out via phone, email or in-person if you have further questions. 

What if I do not qualify to receive funds?

 If you do not qualify for Fast Fund aid, we can refer you to other available resources or assist you with alternative solutions.

Can I apply if I have already received assistance from other programs?

 Yes, you can apply for Fast Fund if you've received assistance from programs. We only consider our own records of assistance to determine if we can assist the applicant again. 

Can Fast Fund aid help with tuition payments?

 Yes, in some cases, the FAST Fund can help with past due tuition balances. However, you must have a concrete plan for addressing the balance with the MATC Student Accounts Office before applying. A tuition payment plan will also be implemented after assistance. 
You will find all our contact information here:

How do I get in contact with Fast Fund outside of my application?

Common Application Questions

Am I eligible to apply for emergency aid?

To be eligible to receive funds from Fast Fund at MATC, you must meet the following requirements:
  1. You are currently enrolled at MATC
  2. You are facing an unexpected financial hardship
  3. Any past due balances with the MATC Student Accounts Office must have a concrete plan to be resolved before requesting assistance from Fast Fund.

Why would Fast Fund deny my application?

 While we aim to support as many students as possible, there are some circumstances that may prevent us from approving an application. These may include:

  • You’ve recently received assistance and need to wait before applying again.

  • The amount requested exceeds what we are able to provide through emergency funds.

  • You’ve received multiple rounds of support and have reached the limit for Fast Fund assistance.

  • You're not currently enrolled as a student at MATC.

  • There has been a lack of follow-up after we have reached out for more information.​

  • A concern arose during communication that made it difficult to move forward with support, including behavior that does not align with the respectful and supportive environment we aim to maintain.

We understand that each situation is unique and are always open to review applications should you feel your application has been wrongly denied. Please feel free to contact our team for clarification or next steps if your application is not approved.

How long does it take to be approved?

After submitting your application, we may take 1-3 business days to assign your application to a reviewer and for them to reach out to you. Once the application review process starts, you may be asked to complete gaps in your application or provide further details on how your situation qualifies as an emergency and/or provide information to distribute funds after application approval. 
If your application is urgent, we recommend applying first and explaining your emergency to the best of your ability. Then contact us directly via phone or email to check on the progress.

Can I apply if I am not currently enrolled but plan to return to MATC?

 Yes, Fast Fund can assist students who are planning to return to MATC. However, your request must specifically be for tuition assistance to re-enroll, and you must have a concrete plan in place with the MATC Student Accounts Office.

What if I need emergency help but my

application hasn't been processed yet?

If you need emergency help before your application is processed, please contact us directly via phone or email, or visit our office. We may be able to assist you with urgent needs while your application is being reviewed.

How do I apply for Fast Fund aid?

For detailed information about the application process, please visit the page below:

La misma información está disponible en español aquí:

Laptop Program Questions

Am I eligible to receive a laptop from Fast Fund?

To be eligible to receive funds from Fast Fund at MATC, you must meet the following requirements:
  1. You are currently enrolled at MATC
  2. You are experiencing a technology gap that is impacting your ability to complete coursework

What kind of laptops are available?

Fast Fund provides refurbished laptops (not chromebooks) through our partnership with United Way & Digital Bridge. Availability depends on distribution cycles.

Is there a cost or deposit required?

No. Laptops are provided free of charge to qualifying students, but we ask recipients to treat the devices responsibly.

Can I receive a replacement if my laptop is lost or broken?

Replacement requests are handled on a case-by-case basis. If your device is lost, stolen, or damaged, please contact us as soon as possible. Laptops with damage caused by misuse, neglect, or preventable situations will not be eligible for replacement.

Can I receive multiple laptops?

Students are eligible for one device for the lifetime of the program unless your laptop is lost or broken, then you may apply to receive a replacement.

How do I request a laptop?

For detailed information about the request process, please visit the page below:

Para información detallada sobre el proceso de solicitud, por favor visite la página a continuación:

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