October 3, 2022

Support for those impacted by Hurricane Ian

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graphic reads, a message from the division of student affairs.

Dear RIT Community:

Last week, Hurricane Ian devastated many communities across Florida, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and other states. While the worst of the storm surge has ended, the path of destruction has left thousands without power, and many people remain in shelters. 

Natural disasters, like Hurricane Ian, are overwhelming to communities and often touch the lives of members of the RIT family. We have reached out to students from the impacted areas to offer support. As a community, it is natural to want to offer aid to impacted communities. Below are a few ways for you to help.

American Red Cross

To ensure blood remains available for those in impacted areas, please consider donating blood and/or platelets. You can donate by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or register for the RIT on-campus Red Cross Blood Drive, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Wednesday, October 5, in the Student Alumni Union (SAU) 1829 Room.

Food Banks

  • The Florida Food Bank’s network of local organizations are working to provide food, water and resources to those affected by Hurricane Ian. Use the network’s registry to identify an organization to send funds and other ways to help.
  • Lowcountry Food Bank is working with dozens of regional disaster relief organizations and community partners in the Carolinas to help neighbors in the wake of Hurricane Ian. 

Support Impacted Residents

  • Central Florida Mutual Aid (CFLMA) is a community-powered nonprofit collective organization in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties. Financial donations are needed to support the immediate needs of residents impacted by Hurricane Ian. 
  • The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is accepting contributions to its Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund. Donations will support local nonprofit agencies and school districts in the Charlotte, DeSoto, Sarasota, and Manatee counties. 

As you consider opportunities to make financial contributions to support relief efforts, review Charity Navigator’s “5 Steps to Informed Giving.” You can also use the “Charity Search” tool to research organizations you are considering for a donation.

Thank you for your care and concern for our fellow citizens during this time of need.

Sincerely,

Sandra S. Johnson Ed.D
Senior Vice President for Student Affairs