ECU raises over $40,000 for coronavirus relief

During Giving Tuesday Now, a global philanthropic event that was created to help those affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, East Carolina University raised nearly $40,000 for student emergency funds and other university relief efforts.

In a press release, ECU News Services highlighted that students face a loss of wages, jobs, food insecurity and the threat of not being able to pay rent. So far, the university has recieved 1,200 requests for aid, according to the press release. 

“I’m so grateful to be a part of the Pirate culture that serves with passion and compassion. I say it all the time – Pirates care and Pirates share,” Interim Chancellor Ron Mitchelson said in the press release. “Even in this difficult time, it’s heartening to see how Pirate Strong we can be.”

One of the largest donations, according to the press release, came from the Delta Dental Foundation. With a gift of $10,000 to the School of Dental Medicine, the foundation wants to ensure that emergency care can continue to be provided by the faculty, residents and staff.

The press release stated $40,000 raised from Giving Tuesday Now will be added onto the $72,000 that has been raised for the student emergency funds and another $53,000 from the UNC System fundraising support. The next fundraiser for student emergency funds, Pirate Nation Gives, will be on June 24.