Ducks Give 2025

Sometimes, the biggest obstacles to earning a degree aren’t academic. A surprise medical bill. A family emergency. Not enough food in the fridge. When students face financial crises, even small setbacks can derail their progress. 

The Students in Crisis Fund provides emergency or gap funding for students experiencing unforeseen financial hardships—from illness or injury to housing insecurity or extreme weather events. It’s a flexible fund designed to help students overcome urgent challenges and stay focused on their education. 

In 2023–2024, the Students in Crisis Fund awarded more than $189,000 to 304 students, helping them with their most pressing expenses: 

• 84% obtained or maintained safe housing
• 94% had enough food to eat
• 89% paid essential utility bills
• 84% met their healthcare needs 
• 73% paid for academic supplies

Because of generous donors like you, students can recover from financial problems quickly, remain focused on their studies, and keep moving toward graduation. Here’s what a few recipients had to say: 

“I wouldn’t have finished my degree without it. College for a first-generation student like me is hard in and of itself, but being low income, school is one of the last things on my mind when I’m struggling financially. With the money I received, I ensured my tuition was paid, and I didn’t have to worry about how I was going to pay for my last term of college. It means more to me than words can express. Thank you!”

“Your generous donation allowed me to stay in school instead of leaving to work to catch up on everything. It means a lot that I was able to focus on my goals and dreams.”

“I am so incredibly thankful for your donations. You helped me afford mental health care that I otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. I wouldn’t have been able to graduate without it. One day, I hope to provide students with the same support and pass on the generosity. Thank you again.”

Your gift to the Students in Crisis Fund can make all the difference—helping ensure that the UO’s most vulnerable students can stay enrolled, earn their degrees, and pursue their dreams. 

Join the UO Duck community in showing up for students when they need it most.