We are shocked and saddened, as we begin a new academic year, by the tragic events unfolding in Texas and Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. We extend our deepest sympathies to those who are suffering in this calamity and will be struggling to rebuild their lives in the months ahead.

We know that many of you are directly affected by this disaster or would like to help those in the midst of it. We have identified more than 600 students who are residents of the impacted areas; we expect this number to grow as the storm widens its path of destruction. Our Schools have been reaching out directly to these students with plans for support. The outstanding team in Student Intervention Services (SIS) is coordinating as needed with faculty, Student Financial Services, Risk Management, and other key resources.

If you are a student who is directly affected by these events—whether here on campus or unable to make it back to campus—and you need someone who will work with you, please contact SIS at (215) 898-6081.

We also urge you to take full advantage of the support available to you across campus:

• Office of the Chaplain: (215) 898-8456
• Student Health Service: (215) 746-3535
• Student Financial Services: (215) 898-1988
• Office of the VPUL: (215) 898-6081
• CAPS: (215) 898-7021
• University HELP Line: (215) 898-HELP 

We encourage members of the Penn community to work with a charitable organization of their choosing. Organizations currently on the ground in Houston include: the Red Cross, the Houston Food Bank, and the SAVE Rescue Coalition. 

Please keep those who have been affected by this catastrophe and those who are assisting them in your thoughts and prayers.