UD sees an increase in requests, donations to student crisis fund

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The University of Dayton’s student crisis fund is getting more requests for help as well as more donations during the coronavirus pandemic.

The university has received more than 300 requests for emergency aid from current students, including help with groceries, personal items and even transportation home.

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At the same time, more than $100,000 has been donated to the emergency fund.

“Many of the students who requested aid were employed on or near campus, but those jobs are gone. However, their basic expenses, including the purchasing of food, transportation, etc., are still present,” said Jen Howe, vice president for university advancement.

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“Thanks to the donors who are contributing to this fund, these students are able to cover those needs and continue with their education at a time when their financial challenges would otherwise force them to stop. We thank the donors for putting into practice the University’s Catholic and Marianist tradition to care for others in community.”

Since the student crisis fund was started in 2010, it has helped about a half dozen students each year who have sudden, unexpected expenses due to a parent’s death, job loss in the family, injury or other circumstances.

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Last year, 15 students needed temporary housing, food and other essentials after their off-campus housing was damaged by the Memorial Day tornadoes.

Applications for the student crisis fund are being reviewed as they're received. To apply for emergency assistance, visit the university's website. Donations to the fund can be made here.

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