August 29, 2017

Hurricane Harvey Relief Efforts

To the Anteater community:

Over the last few days, Hurricane Harvey has caused unprecedented flood and wind damage to large areas of southeast Texas.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those affected by the devastation of this natural disaster, including Anteaters from the greater Houston area and those with family and friends in the region.

Right now, the people of Texas are in severe need of vital resources such as food, shelter and medical support. I have heard that several of our Anteaters are already dedicating their time and assets to assist in relief efforts and that others have expressed interest in lending a hand.

I am extremely heartened by the spirit of goodwill within the UCI community and encourage those who can to get involved and contribute to the Hurricane Harvey relief effort by donating to organizations such as the American Red CrossFeeding Texas, the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund (administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation) and United Way.

Additionally, UCI is currently seeking blood donors. While we are able to meet most of UC Irvine Medical Center patients’ needs, additional blood units are obtained from the American Red Cross. The more self-sufficient we can be during this disaster, the more the American Red Cross can help those in affected areas with shortages. The UCI Blood Donor Center is located inside the Student Center in Room B106 and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, from noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. You can contact the center at 949-824-2662 or via email at ibleedblue@uci.edu to make an appointment.

UCI is made up of many people from around the world and all over the country. When something like this happens, it affects us all. Together we can make a difference and help a community in need.

Fiat Lux,

Chancellor Howard Gillman