Penn State Lehigh Valley received a $10,000 grant from Sanofi in December to support its Student Emergency Fund and LionShare Food Pantry. These funds directly support the campus’ most vulnerable students.
More than half of college students reported that due to COVID-19 related disruptions to their or their family’s incomes, they can no longer afford tuition, according to a OneClass survey done last summer. To combat this, Penn State Lehigh Valley has provided more than $5,000 worth of assistance to students helping with their rent, transportation, utility bills and tuition since COVID-19 started in March of last year. The campus has also given some students grocery store gift certificates so they can purchase healthy food, as well as the staples found in the campus’ LionShare Food Pantry.
“As we continue in these challenging times, we remain focused on our students – especially those most challenged. Unfortunately, our students have greater need than previous years and our Emergency Fund was incredibly low. This grant from Sanofi came at the right moment. We are especially grateful for their care and concern for college students during this unique and difficult time,” said Tina Q. Richardson, chancellor, Penn State Lehigh Valley.
“This generous gift will help us serve students as they grapple with the ongoing challenges due to the pandemic. We are always grateful to be able to supplement these funds, as we are utilizing them more now than ever. Ongoing support is always appreciated,” said Tom Dubreuil, director of student affairs, Penn State Lehigh Valley.
For more information about the Student Emergency Fund, contact Tom Dubreuil at 610-285-5021 or [email protected]. Learn more about the food pantry on campus at the LionShare Food Pantry website.