Disaster Relief

Hurricane Ian On Wednesday, September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Ft. Myers, Florida as a category 5 storm. More than 2.5 million residents were left without power as the storm tore across the southern parts of Florida. Search and rescue efforts are underway despite extensive flooding. Hospitals in the area are unable to operate and many residents are struggling to find drinking water. The current death toll stands at 21 with the number expected to rise. Hurricane Ian, now a tropical storm, is expected to strengthen at sea as it makes its way to the Carolinas in the next few days

Disaster Relief Support & Resources (Students)

On Sunday, September 18, 2022, Hurricane Fiona ripped through Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean islands taking lives, destroying homes, and leaving residents without power and running water. Many York College students have extended family members and friends in that region and may have been directly or indirectly affected. The York College faculty, staff, and administration stand ready to assist and support our students through this challenging time.

Coping with Disaster, Trauma, Loss & Grief

Grief, Loss, and Counseling Mental Health Services are available to all students. Working with students with concerns about family, difficulty in all types of relationships, depression, and anxiety, among many others. If anything makes it difficult for you to succeed in school – we are here for you! All services are free and confidential for York students. Reach out to the York College Counseling Center, the University's webpage on Mental Health services for students, and the Women's Center for Gender Justice for various in-person and telehealth appointments.

Emergency Funding

The Petrie Emergency Grant and the One York Emergency Relief Fund offer financial assistance with travel and funeral services. The York College's Carroll and Milton Petrie Student Emergency Fund seeks to assist eligible students coping with unexpected hardship to continue their education at York College and become financially aware and responsible for their continued education. Apply for an Emergency grant through the Petrie Fund or contact us in the Center for Gender Justice to get assistance with your application.

Academic Support

Helping Those Directly Impacted

If you feel inclined to help the victims/survivors financially, please see the list of the following organizations that have been vetted by the New York City Mayor's office and/or the New York State Governor's Office.

Make a Donation to Assist in the Aftermath

CUNY has established a fund for charitable donations to assist in the aftermath of a tragedy.

Donations can be made via check or money order payable to CUNY Research Foundation with a memo indicating "Disaster Relief Fund 78511-00-15." The money collected will be distributed to a reputable agency providing direct support to the victims.

Support Relief Efforts

Hispanic Federation – supporting efforts in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. To learn more about relief efforts led by this organization, learn about our work in Puerto Rico, or check their Instagram: @HFPuertoRico.
International Medical Corps – Puerto Rico. To learn more about relief efforts led by this organization, visit We are responding toHurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico.
AmeriCares – Puerto Rico To learn more about relief efforts led by this organization, visit Our Work in Puerto Rico
Direct Relief – Puerto Rico and the Caribbean
Salvation Army – Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands
New York Disaster Interfaith Services – Puerto Rico
SPB – Puerto Rico

Resources

Hispanic Federation for Puerto Rico
DirectRelief for the Dominican Republic
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Florida Disaster Fund or text DISASTER to ‘20222’

Faculty & Staff

CUNY's Employee Assistance Program also provides support services for faculty and staff. These services are for employees and their families and can assist domestically and internationally in the affected areas. Visit CCA@YourService to access services online (password = CUNY) or call 1-800-833-8707