As the COVID-19 pandemic affected life for everyone, Southwestern Adventist University focused on meeting student needs through the Fighting Food and Housing Insecurity fundraising campaign. Launched with a goal to raise $50,000, SWAU has recently concluded the campaign, exceeding the goal thanks to the generous support of 60 individuals from across the globe. This fund was integral in ensuring that students were able to receive direct financial assistance to ease hardships that resulted from the pandemic.

More than $43,000 was distributed directly to dozens of students to help them meet immediate needs. A little more than $2,000 went to support the SWAU Food Pantry which assists students with groceries and non-perishable food items on a weekly basis. The remaining $5,000 will be allocated toward improving health and wellness options for students. Optimal needs for these funds are being identified to improve workout equipment and potentially build a campus mountain bike trail to increase recreational options.

“I want to express my gratitude to our University constituency and friends for looking out for our students during these transitional times,” shared James The, Vice President for Student Services.

“Your generous spirit continues to resonate on our campus by the lives that have been touched by this campaign.”

The Fighting Food and Housing Insecurity campaign is one example of how the SWAU community prioritized student needs during this challenging time. The University appreciates the generosity of donors who continue to support students as they pursue their educational goals.

To learn more about how friends of SWAU are supporting the student experience, click here.

— Tim Kosaka is director of Marketing & Public Relations for Southwestern Adventist University.