San Antonio, TX—Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $50,303,554 in federal funding for colleges, universities, and trade and vocational schools in the San Antonio region. This funding, awarded through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, will assist students and schools with expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19.

“Now more than ever, students in the San Antonio region need our help weathering this economic crisis” said Congressman Cuellar. “This federal investment will help students meet their financial needs, such as the cost of food, housing and other basic essentials, and ensure our institutions of higher education can continue to operate during this crisis. I am committed to helping these students survive this crisis and making sure they have an opportunity at a great education.”

“I want to thank Northeast Lakeview College President Dr. Veronica Garcia, Our Lady of the Lake University President Dr. Diane E. Melby, St. Mary’s University President Thomas Mengler, Texas A&M University-San Antonio President Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Trinity University President Dr. Danny Anderson, University Of Texas At San Antonio President Dr. Taylor Eighmy, University Of Texas Health Science Center At San Antonio President William L. Henrich, University Of The Incarnate Word President Dr. Thomas Evans, and all of their staff for their dedication ensuring that their students have educational opportunities during these challenging times.”

As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, Congressman Cuellar helped secure nearly $14 billion to support postsecondary education students and institutions in the CARES Act. At least 50 percent of funding allocated to these schools through these CARES Act grants will provide students with emergency financial aid grants to help cover expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to coronavirus. These grants can assist students with eligible expenses such as food, housing, course materials, technology, health care, and child care. In the coming weeks, the Department of Education will issue additional guidelines for the remaining 50 percent allotted.