Ohio colleges have funds to help students in emergencies

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — For college students who are poor, the margin between graduating and dropping out can be as slim as an unpaid utility bill or a busted transmission.

Even if they have grants and loans to pay for most of their tuition and housing, any unexpected expense can kill the best-laid plans.

"Even if students have financial aid, there are these unforeseen circumstances that just derail a student," said Tari Blaney, director of the Student Advocacy Center at Columbus State.

Along with that fund, the Otterbein Women's Club alumni group donates funds for Gatti to award grants of up to $1,000 to help students get through short-term crises.

Otterbein added to its offerings for strapped students last year with the opening of Promise House, a drop-in center where anyone can study and use a computer, have a free snack and cup of coffee and visit a food pantry.

Colleges and universities that have emergency funds typically walk a fine line in advertising their existence.