Mission, TX—Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $54,417,724 federal funding for colleges, universities, and trade and vocational schools in the Rio Grande Valley. 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 South Texas 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 University Of Texas – Rio Grande Valley President Guy Bailey, South Texas College President Dr. Shirley A. Reed, Mission Beauty Institute President Mongcam Hunynh, and all of their staff for their dedication to ensuring that their students have all the 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.