PIKEVILLE, Ky. – The University of Pikeville has launched the UPike Family Flood Support initiative to assist areas devastated by recent flooding. UPike encourages alumni and friends of the university to help in any way possible.
One way alumni and friends can contribute to relief efforts is by donating to the UPike Student Emergency Fund. Established in 2020, the fund was created to help students continue their education after being impacted by an emergency or disaster. Contributions to this fund will help relieve that burden.
You can donate to the student emergency fund by visiting upike.edu/floodrelief and click “Give Now.”
In addition to working to raise money to help our students affected by the flood, the UPike Family has been actively involved in providing direct relief to our neighbors. UPike Public Safety has helped to coordinate a water drive. In the span of two days, nearly 300 cases of water were donated and delivered to areas in desperate need of clean drinking water. Water donations are still being accepted on campus at UPike’s Office of Public Safety.
Teams of students, faculty and staff continue making trips to impacted areas to lend a hand. In the days following the catastrophe, hundreds of members of the UPike Family could be found shoveling mud, carrying debris and serving food to those in need.
UPike President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., was among those pitching in to help.
“When tragedy strikes in the mountains, we do what the Appalachians have done since the 1700’s — We get busy and help our neighbors,” Webb said. “The UPike Family is who we are because of where we are. Our calling is as it has always been, to serve.”
The university continues its commitment to the students and families of Eastern Kentucky by partnering with other organizations assisting with flood clean-up and relief efforts. The American Red Cross identified a need to house responders and UPIKE found accommodations for nearly 50 volunteers on campus.
Students who have been displaced by flooding are able to move on to campus early for the fall semester. Shower facilities are also available for students in need. If you know a student who could benefit from this service, please email housing@upike.edu or call (606) 218-5224 for additional information.
Any former graduate of UPike or Pikeville College whose diploma may have been damaged by flood water can contact the registrar’s office to receive a replacement free of charge. Email laurenpiotrowski@upike.edu or call (606) 218-5193.
Students residing in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Letcher, Perry and Pike counties can now visit disasterassistance.gov to apply for FEMA relief assistance.
