(DePaul University/Randall Spriggs)
The snowstorms and historic low temperatures that battered Texas this week have left thousands of families vulnerable to the cold and food shortages as communities wait for power to be restored.For DePaul students at home in Texas this quarter, the power outages are directly affecting many students' ability to stay warm; get food or water – or even attend classes and complete assignments.
Students in need of assistance have asked, “How can I get help?" Faculty and staff want to know, “How can I provide help?"
We know building a longstanding sense of family or community implies we are there for each other, in all times, but especially when we face difficult circumstances. To our students in Texas, we want you to know we are with you, in prayer, in solidarity that we want to express in various forms. We belong to each other, and we care for each other together.
Resources for students seeking assistance
Student Emergency Assistance Fund
DePaul students in Texas who have experienced loss of income associated with the storm, whether because they were unable to commute to work or because they are working remotely and have lost power and internet services, can request emergency financial assistance through the Student Emergency Assistance Fund. To learn more about the emergency fund process, email deanofstudents@depaul.edu
University Counseling Services
For mental health support, students can schedule an initial consultation with a university counselor by calling (773) 325-7779.
University Spiritual and Pastoral Care
Mission and Ministry staff including Rev. Diane Dardon and Amanda Thompson, are available for conversation about spiritual needs and concerns.
Ways to Support Students
Many students engaging in remote learning from Texas have not had power for up to three days, so they have not been able to attend class or access D2L during this time and
may well be experiencing multiple forms of stress.
- If a student informs a faculty member that their ability to engage in class or course work is a result of the storm in Texas and related loss of power, faculty should reasonably accommodate the student:
- Extend deadlines
- Reschedule tests or quizzes
- Provide alternatives for students unable to attend synchronous online sessions
It is not necessary for the student to complete an absence notification form through the Dean of Students office in order to receive these accommodations.
- For faculty and staff who have concerns about a student's mental health or well-being, please use one of the following:
- Call (773) 325-7779 and ask the front desk staff to connect you with the on-call psychologist for consultation.
- Provide the student with UCS' contact information. UCS is not authorized to contact a student for a wellness check.
- For immediate safety concerns or escalated behavior after business hours, including weekends and between the hours of 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. on weekdays, call DePaul's Public Safety at (773) 325-7777. They will reach out to an on-call psychologist.
Ways to help residents of Texas
Find out how you can help here:
Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley
Catholic Charities Dallas
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Diocese of Dallas
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Together, we will continue to Take Care DePaul.