Although Hurricane Dorian spared UCF from a direct hit, its impact resonated across our campus. Our hearts go out to the people of the Bahamas and to our many students, faculty and staff who have ties to the islands.
This week, we’ve connected with each of our Bahamian students to offer them additional support and resources, and we’re also reaching out to alumni living in the Bahamas. We’re committed to helping our fellow Knights in their recovery.
We’ve had many inquiries about how we can come together to support Bahamian relief efforts, and I’m pleased to share that UCF Global, SGA and Student Development and Enrollment Services have launched a campus-wide donation drive.
The supplies needed include a wide variety of non-perishable food and household items, and I encourage you to give if you can. The drive will run through Friday, Sept. 20.
Drop-off points include the Student Union (Room 153, across from the MASS Office), UCF Global Building (first floor, front desk), Barbara Ying Center (main lobby), UCF Downtown (Student Engagement Office on the second floor of UnionWest), and the Rosen College of Hospitality Management (Rosen Life Office, Room 202B). Drop-off locations will be open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Collection efforts support the National Association of the Bahamas, and the supplies collected will be transported directly to the islands.
Another opportunity to provide support during this time is to give a boost to a Knight in need. Consider donating your unused hurricane supplies to the Knights Pantry. The Pantry provides UCF students with free food and basic necessities. Non-perishable food items are accepted, as well as monetary donations.
Finally, the UCF Student Emergency Fund helps Knights who face unforeseen financial challenges, like medical issues, vehicle repairs, or natural disasters like Hurricane Dorian. Many students have unrelated hardships throughout the year, and this fund provides extra support in these circumstances.
In my time at UCF, I have seen firsthand how our campus community comes together to help those in need, whether they are fellow Knights or victims of tragedy. Thank you for stepping up once again.
