Help UO LGBTQIA+ Students Reach Graduation!

Video by Apryl Jackson

While public acceptance is growing, high rates of family rejection and other forms of discrimination mean that the University of Oregon's LGBTQIA+ students—especially queer and transgender students of color—are more likely to experience financial hardship than their peers. Many leave UO in the hopes of improving their situation and never return to complete their degree. 

By making a gift to the LGBTQIA+ Emergency Fund, you can make a real difference in the lives of UO LGBTQIA+ students who are struggling. Administered by UO's LGBT Education and Support Services coordinator, the LGBTQIA+ Emergency Fund helps LGBTQIA+ students access:

• food
• secure housing 
• medical and mental health resources
• gender-affirming care
• other need-based assistance

"As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I know I am not alone when I say I lack support of any kind from my family. I have struggled with housing and food insecurity, mental health issues related to trauma, and a lack of community...The [LGBTQIA+ Emergency Fund] allowed me to continue excelling in my education while addressing my mental health concerns without fear of financial repercussions." 

— Personal Statement from Anonymous Recipient

With the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, need is greater than ever before. The number of LGBTQIA+ students applying for and receiving emergency assistance more than quadrupled from 2019 to 2020, with an average award of $500. Many recipients are queer and trans students of color, and students with disabilities.

LGBTQIA+ students are beloved members of our University of Oregon community. They are critical thinkers, activists, academics, and artists who are forging the path for LGBTQIA+ people in their respective academic fields. You can help them reach graduation by donating to the LGBTQIA+ Emergency Fund.