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Lydia’s Promise

Effective September 1, 2021 - no further Lydia's Promise Awards can be made.

Lydia’s Promise provides limited emergency financial assistance to current Bradley students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses. Designated to off-set a short-term financial need, it is not intended to replace or supplement financial aid. Funds may count as income and may be subject to federal and/or state taxes. Awards range up to $600.

Examples of possible expenses

  • Assistance with rent or utilities due to an emergency
  • Books or essential course materials
  • Costs related to a family death or illness
  • Emergency or temporary housing costs
  • Emergency transportation needs, e.g., bus pass, car repair or parking pass
  • Medications or uncovered emergency medical care costs
  • Replacement of essential personal belongings due to disaster or theft
  • Safety related needs (e.g., changing locks)

Examples of possible non-covered expenses

  • Costs for entertainment, recreation or nonemergency travel Lost
  • Bradley ID (unless loss meets any conditions above)
  • Non-essential utilities, household or furniture costs unrelated to damage or theft
  • Normal and anticipated academic expenses, such as tuition, rent and meals (unless any conditions above are met)
  • Penalties, fines, tickets or legal fees

Eligibility Guidelines

  • Must be a currently enrolled Bradley University student
  • Must demonstrate financial hardship
  • Other possible resources have been considered and are either unavailable or insufficient
  • Priority will go to students who have not previously received Lydia’s Promise resources with only one award per student given annually

Application Procedures

Students must submit a written request and related documentation to the Vice President for Student Affairs at vpsa@bradley.edu. Requests should include: type of assistance and amount; why Lydia’s Promise is needed and how funds will be used; available documentation of need; and description of other sources used or explored for assistance. Submission allows the committee to review the student’s request, financial aid records and other needed university records to determine eligibility and amount of funding.

Crisis and/or Emergency

If you are dealing with a crisis that needs immediate response, contact Bradley University Police at (309) 677-2000. Resources may also be available by calling 2-1-1. Calling 2-1-1 is free, confidential and connects you to resources in the Peoria community for food, shelter, utility assistance, transportation assistance, childcare programs, etc.

Lydia’s Promise was created through thoughtful outside support.