A place to lay your head, access to nutritious meals and essential health care treatment—Missouri State is so much more than a university.

With our world in crisis as we continue to see the impact of COVID-19, our students need us now more than ever.

Many of our Bears have responded to critical student needs with an abundance of generosity and for that we truly thank you for allowing our Missouri State community to continue to move forward in this time of uncertainty. As we continue to overcome obstacles and navigate a new way of doing things, our students are reaching out for your help.

“I am a first generation college student… and I couldn’t be more appreciative to those who contributed to this fund so students like myself can continue their education,” said a junior, majoring in political science.

Many of our students are experiencing hardships that can put their education on hold and many times, derail their educational goals permanently. Whether it be due to loss of income, the passing of a loved one, or limited access to their support network—our Bears deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams regardless of circumstances.

“I wish there were some way that I could explain the extreme weight that was lifted off my shoulders… just knowing that I will be able to even pay my rent this month brings me to tears,” said a student with young children.

More students say thank you

“When the COVID-19 hit, I was unprepared for the financial strain it would cause. This $500 will assist me with my rent, grocery money, student loan payments, and countless other expenses. I cannot express my gratitude enough…” said a scholarship recipient.

“I am so appreciative of everything MSU is doing to help students during this uncertain time. This money will help me pay for my apartment in Springfield and my utility bills. It will also help me pay for a research class I am planning to take this summer for my major,” said a student majoring in speech pathology.

And this from another student. “I am more than grateful for this financial aid. It definitely takes a lot of stress off my mind and now I can better focus on my studies. I am greatly appreciative of everyone who has made such emergency funding available to the students especially the donors. It has sent a strong message across my heart that there is always hope even in the darkest of times.”

GIVE NOW

Give to these efforts

The university has several efforts that alumni and friends can give to, if your situation allows. They include:

• The Student Emergency Fund – Set up to respond to students’ unmet needs by providing relief for immediate hardships, such as travel expenses related to returning home, technology needs to ensure students can access virtual learning, and other unforeseen financial challenges.
• Magers Health and Wellness Center – The center serves MSU students and all MSU employees, and in many cases, their families. As this pandemic widens, our medical personnel will need more screening and personal protection equipment, such as masks, gowns, gloves, etc. Additionally, mental health and counseling support services provided through Magers will be in high demand.
• Scholarship Support – Scholarships will become an even greater need as the economic impacts of the COVID-19 crisis present new challenges and financial burdens for many students and their families. Your scholarship support will help students realize their educational dreams and goals, and change lives.
• Bear Pantry – This pantry is one way the university is working to combat students’ and employees’ need for sustainable access to nutritional foods. As we work to provide a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the MSU community will likely face more food insecurity, rendering support from the Bear Pantry even more critical.
• Missouri State Fund for Excellence – This fund helps ensure that we offer educational excellence. With in-person classes canceled during the outbreak, we will rely on this fund to maintain academic continuity by moving to online and virtual classes. The solutions will likely involve additional costs.

Please give and share the word about this effort.

More information on how you can help

So many of you have reached out asking how to help during the COVID-19 crisis. As a result, you may receive a personal text message during the week of April 20 – 24 from the MSU Foundation with more information on how to assist your Bear family.