Critical Needs Fund

Geographic Scope: Sonoma County, California

Program Background: The VMCF board has established this fund to assist scholars in times of need, so they are able to focus on their academic studies. VMCF understands that emergency situations can arise that may distract or prevent scholars from balancing their academic duties successfully.

Eligibility: Current recipients of the VMCF Scholarships only

Types of Eligible Needs

Critical Needs Funding covers three categories:

Academic

Unexpected expenses for classes, additional fees, technology, admission fees, etc.

Critical

Expenses related to housing, unexpected costs, therapy fees, medication costs, etc.

Emergency

Medical/dental needs and unexpected situations that require immediate solutions.

Examples of Funded Needs

• Wisdom teeth removal
• Emergency car repairs
• Travel expenses
• Parking passes
• Emergency medical expenses
• Therapy fees
• Laptops
• Textbooks
• Test fees
• Surgeries
• Braces
• Admission fees
• Trade school equipment

Application Requirements

Scholars must provide backup documentation for the requested funding need, such as:

• Medical bills
• Receipts
• Invoices
• Other supporting documentation

Application Process

1. Submit Application - Complete online application form
2. Provide Documentation - Include backup documentation for the requested funding need
3. Required Supporting Documents:
   • Medical bills (for medical/dental emergencies)
   • Receipts
   • Invoices
   • Other proof of the emergency or critical need
4. Review and Decision - Fund committee reviews application and supporting documents

What to Include

• Clear description of the critical/emergency/academic need
• All relevant supporting documentation
• Any other information to help the committee understand the urgency and nature of the request