From Aid to Abandonment: The Impact of Federal COVID-19 Policies on Student-Mothers

• In Event: Funding Futures: Unpacking the Complexities and Limitations of Financial Aid and Philanthropy

Abstract

In an attempt to support all Americans through the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government implemented the American Rescue Plan, which included stimulus payments and other cash aid; initial assessments indicated that these policies successfully reduced poverty rates. However, there are no studies that investigate how student-mothers experienced these policies. We utilize Doyal and Gough’s theory of human needs to analyze data from longitudinal interviews with 57 student-mothers to understand how funding implemented in response to COVID-19 impacted their lives. Participants used this temporary funding to pay for basic needs, like childcare, clothing for kids, and other major expenses, including tuition and fees. However, its discontinuation left student-mothers without needed aid, leading many to express concerns about their ability to persist.

Authors

• Margaret W. Sallee, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Danielle Vegas Lewis, University at Buffalo - SUNY