SJSU’s Community Keeps on Giving
SJSU senior Chiara Mattioli discusses the importance of the Student Crisis Support Fund.
Thanks to San José State’s alumni, faculty, staff and friends, students know the SJSU community is here for them during the global pandemic—providing support and peace of mind when help has been needed most.
Initially launched on March 25 with a conservative goal of $20,000, the university’s spring 2020 crowdfunding campaign to support the Student Crisis Support Fund has raised $139,495 from more than 650 donors. Gifts came from as far away as South Korea, and 38 donors made more than one gift. Forty-eight hours before the April 30 campaign deadline, SJSU announced that corporate partner, Cisco Systems, agreed to match all donations up to a total of $10,000 in the final week. This, combined with a $10,000 donation from San José State alumni Joan and Don Beall, helped SJSU exceed all fundraising goals.
The Student Crisis Support Fund, administered by SJSU staff as part of the SJSU Cares initiative, provides immediate assistance to SJSU students who are facing unforeseen economic crises. This fund is entirely supported by charitable donations and helps meet students’ time-sensitive needs. Requests increased dramatically due to COVID-19.
“By helping meet their immediate needs, the Student Crisis Support Fund can give SJSU students the ability to overcome the immediate difficult setbacks the pandemic poses,” says Ben Falter, SJSU behavioral intervention chair and senior student affairs case manager, who also responds to students requesting assistance from SJSU Cares. “However, recovery from the pandemic may take years, so the need will continue.”
Funds will address ongoing, anticipated and unforeseen economic needs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the need to support our students continues, the crowdfunding page will remain available to all those who wish to support students during this unprecedented time.
To learn more about the Student Crisis Support Fund, please contact Nancy Stewart, senior director of annual giving and special gifts.
