Hurricane Ian’s widespread destruction left nearly all of Florida impacted. As individuals and families across the state and locally face a long struggle to regain a sense of normalcy — especially those from Lee County and Southwest Florida who lost everything — please know that you are all in the thoughts of your fellow Knights.
Many within our UCF community are among those trying to piece their lives back together as they face damage to their homes, food shortages, housing insecurity and the need to replace basic personal items. This includes a number of students and employees living in nearby apartment complexes and neighborhoods who have been displaced due to severe flooding and power outages — meaning devastating damage, no refrigeration, no air conditioning, no laundry, no stove or oven, and no computer. Even vehicles have been flooded, leaving some Knights without personal transportation to drive to school or work.
As Knights, we lift each other up in times of need, and these Knights could use our help right now more than ever. Because of that, I’ve committed $25,000 in matching funds to support students requiring aid. That means that for every dollar up to $25,000 donated by members of the UCF community, I will give another dollar.
UCF has a number of funds set up to support those within the UCF community needing assistance during major events like these. The UCF Student Emergency Fund was created so that students pursuing higher education shouldn’t have to choose between shelter or food and their coursework. Today, the Student Emergency Fund has enough to provide $2,500 in assistance to 125 students, but we know the need will be even greater. Students are telling us all they have left is their car, wallet, a phone and a few personal items. Others are telling us they have lost everything.
We know there are many Knights directly affected, and there’s certain to be more in the coming days. I know some of you are in no position to give. But if you can, I urge you to consider joining me with an online donation to help our Knights get back on their feet.
Thank you for your generosity, and Charge On!
Carrie Daanen ’92
Chair, Board of Directors
UCF Foundation, Inc.