Flood appeal supports students in time of need

The generous support from the Southern Cross community is helping students who lost their belongings, faced impacts to their employment and transport, or sadly lost their home or accommodation.

One student who appealed for support was rescued by boat with their children and parents when the flood waters reached the second story of their house. “There was no time to save anything. My personal things such as medications, laptop, phone, clothing and children’s birthday presents and all their clothing as well as many other items were destroyed along with everything else in my parents’ house. I have to rebuy all my uni books, computer and iPad. Everything was washed away,” they said.

To date, 121 students have received support from the funds raised, assisting them to recover their belongings, study expenses and get back on their feet. $101,500 of the funds received have been dispersed, with donations and applications for support continuing to roll in.

The University’s Vice President (Engagement) Mr Ben Roche said the support received from the Student Flood Appeal had made an important difference to the lives of flood-impacted students.

“We’ve received donations from alumni, community members, supporting businesses and organisations, University staff and students, and even those who have been directly impacted by the flood themselves which is really touching,” he said.

A donation of 350 laptops was also made by the Sydney legal community, led by Southern Cross law alumnus and University Council member Julie Granger. As a barrister now based in Sydney, Julie made a call out to local legal firms through social media to donate spare iPads and laptops and arranged their delivery to the Lismore campus.

With a second flood hitting the Northern Rivers only a month later, many students are still facing hardship.

“We are still accepting donations for the Student Flood Appeal and invite all those who wish to support impacted students to donate. No matter how big or small, all donations will make a difference, as 100% of donations go directly to students in need” Mr Roche said.

Find out more about the Student Flood Appeal donate here: https://www.scu.edu.au/flood-appeal/