As wildfire season continues across British Columbia and much of Canada, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is inviting community members to help students succeed in the face of hardship.
Evacuations, displacement, damaged property, poor air quality and unexpected expenses can create significant barriers to continuing an education.
Through the TRU Disaster Relief Fund, students experiencing hardship because of wildfire, flood or other emergencies can access emergency financial assistance to help them remain focused on their studies.
“Students affected by disaster are often forced to manage multiple challenges at once,” said Kim Cassar Torreggiani, vice-president advancement and alumni relations. “Emergency funding provides immediate support at a critical moment and helps ensure that an unexpected crisis does not derail a student’s education.”
The need for support is significant as communities face wildfire impacts ranging from evacuation orders to smoky skies and associated disruptions.
“The emergency fund brought a sense of relief in an otherwise overwhelming and upsetting situation,” said Jaime Rump, a TRU student who received assistance in 2023 after her home was destroyed by wildfire.
“We did not know what our future would hold from day to day, and I was in full-time studies not working at the time, so financially I was very stressed out.”
To contribute to the TRU Disaster Relief Fund and help students facing unforeseen emergencies continue their education during times of crisis, visit tru.ca/disasterrelief.
