Emergency Housing Policy

Purpose

The Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) ensures a fair, consistent, and compassionate process for reviewing and addressing urgent student housing needs. The committee evaluates requests related to temporary housing placement, housing extensions, or cost adjustments when students experience crises or circumstances that threaten their housing stability and overall well-being. This policy supports Hood College’s commitment to student safety, stability, and success by providing structured pathways for emergency housing support while maintaining institutional integrity and fiscal responsibility.

Policy Statement

Hood College recognizes that unanticipated events, such as financial crises, health emergencies, family displacement, or safety concerns, may create immediate housing instability for students. The Housing Appeals Committee provides a coordinated institutional response to such emergencies.

Cost adjustments or temporary assistance may be recommended but shall not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the total housing cost for the affected term. All determinations are made with care, confidentiality, and in consideration of institutional capacity and fairness. Decisions are valid for one academic term. Students must reapply each semester.

Committee Composition

The Housing Appeals Committee (HAC) includes representatives who collectively bring expertise in housing operations, financial aid, student support, and wellness. All committee members serve with full voting authority.

• Associate Director of Residence Life (Chair): Facilitates meetings, ensures fair and consistent review of all cases, and oversees the implementation of approved outcomes.
• Financial Aid Representative: Evaluates student financial circumstances and provides information on available aid resources or adjustments.
• Student Success or Wellness Representative: Provides insight into how emergency housing needs intersect with student health, safety, and academic continuity.
• Registrar Representative: Ensures compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements and identifies any enrollment implications.

Meeting Schedule

The HAC meets as needed to ensure timely responses to urgent housing cases. Emergency meetings may be held within three (3) business days of receiving a complete submission when the student’s situation presents immediate risk.

Submission and Review Process

Students must submit an Emergency Housing Request Form and supporting documentation directly to the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Requests should clearly describe the emergency circumstances, the type of assistance sought, and relevant supporting materials (e.g., financial documentation, medical verification, or personal statements).

Hood College – Emergency Housing Request Form – Fill out form

Committee Review

The HAC reviews the submission in accordance with the evaluation criteria outlined below. Additional documentation may be requested to ensure a complete review.

Determination

The HAC will render a decision by majority vote. Approved adjustments or placements are communicated in writing to the student within five (5) business days of the committee’s review.

Evaluation Criteria

Each case is evaluated holistically, with attention to the following criteria:

• Health, Safety, and Well-Being: Evidence of immediate housing insecurity or unsafe conditions; impact of the situation on physical or mental health.
• Financial Hardship: Documentation of sudden financial losses or crisis; confirmation that other funding options have been explored.
• Academic Continuity: Assessment of whether housing instability may disrupt class attendance, performance, or progression.
• Institutional Capacity and Resources: Availability of on-campus housing or financial support; sustainability of assistance within institutional operations.