Kutztown University recently established a new fund to connect KU students who face financial emergencies with funds that can help them put their focus back on school. Bears Band Together, led by the Kutztown University Foundation, has raised more than $30,000 to date to support KU students.
Funds from Bears Band Together helps provide relief from tuition payment difficulties, computers and internet access, help for students who have lost wages or jobs, assistance with emergency moving and transportation expenses, help for students facing housing challenges or food insecurity, resources for students who need emergency medical and mental health services, among many other areas of need.
“It’s been inspiring to celebrate our alumni, students, families, faculty and staff. Even in this difficult time, our community exhibits such strength, enthusiasm, adaptability and grit,” said Dr. Kenneth Hawkinson, Kutztown University president. “We are grateful to our community for stepping up and demonstrating the character that makes Kutztown University unique.”
Bears Band Together continues to raise funds for students. Those looking for ways to help students impacted by this crisis immediately, we ask that you consider making a gift online.
Members of the Kutztown University Foundation Board have matched a $10,000 gift toward the fund.
“Creating Bears Band Together was a continuation of the Kutztown University Foundation’s mission to provide support for our students,” said Alex Ogeka, executive director of the KU Foundation. “During this critical time, our alumni, donors and friends stepped up to provide additional resources and we are grateful for their support. Now more than ever, private philanthropy is essential to keeping KU students on track for educational success. The community’s response to this initiative has been uplifting.”
In addition, as a result of funding from the CARES Act, Kutztown University received $3.7 million from the federal government to be disbursed to eligible students who have been negatively affected by the disruption to campus operations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The vast majority of KU students will receive approximately $295 each to help with the financial impact of dealing with this crisis, with additional funding available to those in need.
KU’s commitment firmly remains on ensuring the well-being of its students, faculty, staff and all those who consider Kutztown University a second home.
