2026-2027 Bright Futures Emergency Fund

Overview

We know that unanticipated life events can happen, and financial hiccups shouldn’t stand in the way of your post-secondary success. The Park City Education Foundation (PCEF) Bright Futures Emergency Fund is here to help support you through sudden, unexpected expenses.

Do not hesitate to contact Valeria Sandoval, Vsandoval@pcschools.us, with questions.

Who Is Eligible?

To apply for emergency funding, students need to meet these core Bright Futures eligibility requirements:

• Enrollment: Enrolled full-time (12+ credits) in an accredited 2- or 4-year degree or certificate program.
• Academics: Maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. 
• Meetings: Completed your annual 1:1 check-in in the fall and spring college budget review with your Bright Futures College Program Manager. 
• On an Academic Improvement Plan? Reach out to the Bright Futures College Program Manager directly, so we can talk through your situation together!

How the Fund Works

• Unexpected Needs: This fund is designed to assist with sudden, urgent expenses beyond your control that create immediate financial stress.
• Exploring Options: Because emergency funds are limited, we encourage you to explore other institutional, community, or financial aid options first. However, if those aren't enough or aren't available, we are here to help.
• Maximum Support: Students may receive up to $2,500 per school year in emergency funding.

Common examples of supported expenses include:

• Transportation: Urgent car repairs needed to get to class or work, or emergency transit passes.
• Technology & Tools: Sudden laptop repairs or replacing required devices essential for coursework.
• Health & Safety: Out-of-pocket medical, dental, or prescription costs not covered by insurance.
• Family & Personal Crises: Emergency travel home due to a family crisis, illness, or loss.
• Essential Needs: Sudden loss of basic necessities, utility shut-off notices, or emergency food assistance.
• Course Supplies: Unanticipated, required books or lab materials needed immediately for class.

What Is Covered?

Because every emergency is different, we review requests on a case-by-case basis.

• How Payments Are Made: Whenever possible, payments are sent directly to the vendor, school, or business (you'll just need to provide their details and an invoice/bill). If you’ve already had to pay out of pocket, keep your receipts and proof of payment so we can review your reimbursement request. 
• Standard Exclusions: To ensure these funds remain available for urgent emergencies, this fund generally does not cover routine expenses like semester tuition, regular rent/housing costs, study abroad, internships, or fraternity/sorority fees.

If you are facing an emergency that falls outside these typical guidelines, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Bright Futures College Program Manager to discuss your situation. Many colleges offer their own student emergency funds as well. Be sure to check with your financial aid office to see what options your school provides!

Application & Timeline

1. Submit Your Request: Complete the Emergency Fund form on Submittable and upload any receipts, bills, or invoices you have.
2. Review: Applications are reviewed by the end of each business day. (PCEF offices are open Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, excluding holidays).
3. Notification: You will receive updates and decisions directly through Submittable.
4. Approval & Payment: Once your application is approved, please allow 7–10 business days for payment processing.