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Not accepting applications 12/23/24 - 1/6/25

The CRISIS Program

The C.R.I.S.I.S. (Crisis Relief in Situations Involving Staff and Faculty) Program is in place to help University of Kentucky employees who are experiencing personal hardship. This program provides temporary financial assistance and is primarily funded by staff and faculty donations. All donations are tax-deductible, effective September 1, 2014.

Apply for CRISIS Assistance

To be considered for assistance:

  • applicant must be an employee of .50 FTE or greater and at least have one year of employment at UK
  • meet one of the qualifying criteria
  • turn in the application and supporting documents* to the CRISIS Program at crisisprogram@uky.edu

Applications for assistance must be for immediate needs only. No previous or anticipated expenses shall be considered. Only one award per household within a 12-month period shall be given. Applications will be reviewed by the CRISIS committee and the decision for funds awarded will be based on the program's funds availability and other applications that are being considered. The amount awarded shall be distributed to the appropriate parties. Funds will not be given directly to employees. 

CRISIS Application

Qualifying Criteria

  • Threat of essential utilities being turned off, such as electric, water or gas on primary residence only.
  • Loss of dwelling or household furnishings due to fire, act of nature or eviction notice on the primary residence only.
  • A major unexpected expense. 

Examples not covered by CRISIS:
~car repairs  ~future bills  ~loan/credit card payments

~tuition  ~medical expenses

~legal fees  ~cell phones

*Examples of supporting documents:

~Disconnect notice from utility

~Eviction or late payment notice for mortgage or rent

~Proof of loss of income

Other Resources:

Lexington-Fayette Community Resource Directory

Donate to the CRISIS Program

  1. Through payroll deduction - Donors wishing to enroll for a payroll deduction gift to CRISIS can now do so directly through myUK. Instructions can be found HERE
    1. Donors wishing to stop a recurring Payroll Deduction can do so through myUK.
  2. By personal check - Mail your check payable to UK CRISIS Program to the Office of Development, William B. Sturgill Development Building, Lexington, KY 40506-0015. 
  3. By credit card - Visit the website for UK's Office of Philanthropy to make one-time donations - https://uky.networkforgood.com/causes/14622-crisis-employee-assistance-fund
  4. Through One Day for UK - Join the community in supporting a cause close to your heart - https://onedayforuk.com/campaigns/crisis-program 

Please consult your tax advisor regarding the tax benefits associated with your gift donation. Beneficiaries of C.R.I.S.I.S. assistance should consult with their tax advisor to determine whether the grant constitutes taxable income.

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