I am reaching out with a heartfelt request for support to continue my college education at Lincoln University to complete my last semester of college. I am currently a senior at Lincoln University and have been working towards earning my bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications. While I have made it to my last semester of my degree program, I am experiencing financial hardships that may result in withdrawing from college with only a semester to go. Federal funding is extremely limited or even non-existent with all the new cuts to financial aid, making it almost impossible to pay for college. I am the student of a single mother who has provided a way for me to complete my studies thus far working two jobs and taking care of both my sister and me. My mom has always done all that she could for my sister and I to take care of us without complaining or showing how overwhelmed she really is.

My fall semester’s balance is due in full in the amount of $13,039. With only being awarded $2,000 for the semester, it isn’t possible to pay the remaining balance of $11,039 without assistance. In addition to the daily struggles my family has been experiencing, a recent car accident created an overwhelming financial burden for our family. We were all blessed that we were able to walk away from the accident without any life-threatening injuries, however transportation is a huge dilemma, especially getting to and from work. This has created additional unexpected expenses for my family, so paying on my balance has not been possible right now either.

Most of my family are graduates of HBCU’s, and I chose to continue that same tradition as I pursued my education at Lincoln University. I am so proud just thinking about my family seeing me graduate in just a few months, especially my grandfather. My grandfather is my hero. He is always there for me, and he does whatever he can to be supportive in my life. Every few weeks, he comes up to my college to buy me groceries, make sure I am okay, and just spend some time with me. He has never missed any event in my life, big or small. Not to long ago, my grandfather had a heart attack, and the reality sank in of how life can change in an instance. Even with working through the recovery of his bypass surgery, my grandfather continues to do all that he can. He has always shown me how a man unconditionally loves and invests in his family. I know how proud he is of me, and how special it will be to see me graduate from college.

My family and I have explored all available financial aid options, but there are still shortfalls with paying the tuition. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant impact to the tuition costs. Thank you for your time, consideration, and generosity. I am appreciative and grateful for any support; whether it's a donation, sharing the fundraiser with your network, or simply sending words of encouragement.

My sincerest thanks,

Sekhi Brown