University of Central Florida students, faculty, staff and alumni are continuing to come together to support victims of the fire at nearby Tivoli Apartments.
The UCF Foundation has begun soliciting help for UCF students displaced by the fire that destroyed 24 units at the privately owned apartment complex near campus on Sunday. Donations also are being coordinated by the Knights Helping Knights Pantry.
Of the roughly 75 Tivoli residents affected by the fire, about 25 are UCF students. The university has provided temporary housing for the rest of the summer term for those left with no place to stay.
“All students now have temporary housing, but most also urgently need food, clothing, housewares and more. In the coming weeks and months, many students also will need to replace computers, textbooks and other study aids and materials,” UCF Foundation CEO Mike Morsberger wrote in an e-mail to members of the university family. “Those who did not have renter’s insurance face the prospect of having to do so out of their own pockets.”
Monetary donations can be made online. Food, toiletries or Publix and Walmart gift cards can be dropped off at Knights Pantry in Ferrell Commons from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Students impacted by the fire can call the following phone lines for assistance:
Housing: UCF has temporary housing available for displaced students. Housing and Residence Life can be reached at 407-882-5000.
Victim Services: Students who would like to speak with a UCF victim advocate can call 407-823-1200. That phone number is staffed 24/7 every day. Advocates can provide students with assistance as well as connections to other resources they may need.
Emotional Support: Those seeking emotional support can call Counseling and Psychological Services at 407-823-2811. For calls outside of regular business hours, press ‘5’ to be connected with a licensed therapist.