Missouri State University has been pivotal in responding to various natural disasters and to serving those in need.
Our hearts go out to those affected by Hurricane Harvey and we recognize the desire to reach out to those affected to provide assistance.
Members of the Missouri State University community have historically responded to natural disasters in several ways.
Learn how you can help.
Relief
During and immediately following a disaster, urgent supplies and support are provided through reputable humanitarian organizations such as Convoy of Hope and the American Red Cross.
Rebuilding
The continual redevelopment of communities occurs over months or years. Missouri State students, faculty and staff have engaged in the rebuilding of other communities in the past and we always consider how we can assist with redevelopment efforts following the initial response.
Break Breaks Immersion Trips are one way that the university has helped in rebuilding after other natural disasters.
The Center for Community Engagement will be hosting a donation drive in partnership with students and Convoy of Hope to create hygiene kits to be sent to those affected by the recent hurricanes. Donation list and drop off locations included in blog link.
Supporting our students
The Emergency Scholarship Fund assists students whose education might be interrupted due to the death of a legal guardian, natural disaster or fire.
Students who lost (or had significant damage to) a family home or business may be eligible for the scholarship.
Members of our campus community can donate to help Missouri State’s own students.
Providing the right support at the right time
To ensure that our actions don’t have unintended consequences, we should be cautious before sending in volunteers that could potentially create a greater burden causing more harm than true aid. We will work with established agencies to assist as needed and appropriate.
We should also be cautious about providing donations. Well-intentioned but unneeded donations can actually cause more harm than good. Money is always the preferred method for donations – it can be used to purchase exactly the supplies that are needed, when they’re needed.