Solidarity and assistance for our India community
Dear fellow RIT Tigers:
While COVID-19 infection rates begin to fall in the Greater Rochester region, New York, and the United States, the global pandemic is far from over. The crisis in India is dire.
India accounted for nearly half the coronavirus cases reported worldwide and 25 percent of global deaths last week, according to the World Health Organization. Hospitals are scrambling for beds and oxygen as they desperately battle another deadly surge of COVID-19.
We are heartbroken over India’s tremendous losses. RIT’s largest group of international students hails from India, with nearly 700 students. We also have a significant number of faculty and staff members from India, as well as a strong alumni network. We understand that all of these groups are deeply concerned about their families and friends as the crisis deepens. To our RIT-India community: We are here to help. And we are with you in spirit and solidarity.
RIT’s International Student Services has reached out to all current Indian students to offer support and guidance on a number of issues related to the crisis (E.g., travel, post-graduation employment). The university is also providing a number of resources and support systems for our Indian students:
- Counseling and Psychological Services: Students can schedule an appointment by sending a secure message on the RIT Wellness Portal or by contacting the office at 585-475-2261. Students looking to connect with mental health support services outside of business hours may call the 24-hour mental health line at 1-855-436-1245.
- Spirituality and Religious Life staff and chaplains are available to connect. Students can reach them via email or phone at 585-475-2137.
- Case Management is available to assist students in connecting to resources on and off campus, as well as helping students navigate complex personal problems (health insurance, food/housing insecurity, financial concerns, etc.).
For those looking for a way to contribute directly to relief efforts, here is a list of organizations seeking donations that are providing oxygen, food, medical supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other forms of support to India:
At RIT, we often say that goodness is essential as we make our mark to improve the world. We stand united to help each other and those in need.
Sincerely,
David Munson, RIT President
Sandra Johnson, Senior Vice President Student Affairs