For many college students, stressors in life go far beyond classes, grades and finals. A 2024 report by Ellucian found that out of 1,500 U.S college students, 78% reported negative impacts on mental health due to financial stress and 61% said the stress of funding their education negatively impacted their academic performance. These statistics reveal a pressing need for support systems that go beyond traditional academic resources, especially when it comes to managing the financial pressures of higher education.
Catholic Charities Fort Worth
That’s why Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW) decided to step in. Committed to ending poverty, CCFW is expanding its impact with the launch of LIFT in Denton County. With success across North Texas, LIFT is a completely free, personalized program that aids individuals in achieving lasting financial stability.
“Transportation, childcare, food insecurity, and even homelessness are barriers we commonly see among students. These challenges can quickly derail a student’s ability to stay in school or maintain employment,” says Head of Client Services, Cindy Casey. “LIFT…goes beyond traditional financial aid by requiring students to develop a resource plan that addresses immediate needs while also identifying long-term solutions…this dual focus helps them build stability while staying on track with their education.”
LIFT program
Backed by research from Notre Dame’s Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities, LIFT offers services including case management, financial coaching and resource navigation. However, their program is more than just financial guidance. Applicants receive support tailored to their goals and are equipped with the tools needed to financially grow.
Student impact
“LIFT [is] a natural fit for non-traditional students who are balancing school with part- or full-time employment, especially those who are financially responsible for children of their own,” said Casey. “For traditional college students, we also provide Education Navigation onsite at TWU, UNT, and NCTC Corinth. Education Navigation focuses on persistence in school and navigating non-academic barriers…LIFT addresses many of those same barriers while focusing on long-term goals such as financial literacy, improved financial behaviors, and client-driven goal completion.”
Each client is paired with a case manager and together develop a customized plan that reflects their unique needs and goals. With applications now open, CCFW’s one-on-one coaching model is set to aid even more communities. Half of current participants have increased their discretionary income, and nearly 50% have grown their savings, milestones that reflect the program’s commitment to lasting change…