Student-athletes representing all Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns NCAA sports will attend the first home football game of the season Saturday, but not as spectators.
They’ll be stationed inside the four entrance gates to Cajun Field to collect donations for the University’s Annual Fund. All contributions to that fund made through Sept. 30 will be used to provide financial assistance to students affected by the recent historic flooding.
The student-athletes, who will be wearing their team apparel, will accept donations from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Saturday. Kickoff for the Boise State vs. Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns game is 11 a.m. Student-athletes will also collect contributions at the Sept. 10 and Sept. 17 home football games.
“Once the floodwater recedes, it’s easy to forget that there are students who are still grappling with the aftermath,” said UL Lafayette President Dr. Joseph Savoie. “Some lost their homes; some lost vehicles that they relied on to travel to campus. Some families whose homes sustained water damage are facing the unexpected expense of repairs that make it difficult or impossible to pay for students’ tuition.”
“We know that our fans are generous and want our students to succeed academically. If we all give a little, together we can make sure that all of our students can stay on course.”
Priority financial assistance will be given to students whose attendance is at risk because of the catastrophic flooding.
The University has postponed tuition payment deadlines and created payment plan options to help students affected by flooding.
Student-athletes have unloaded supplies donated to flood victims by the University of South Alabama, cleared and cleaned water-damaged homes, and conducted a food drive for flood victims.
In addition to this Saturday’s game against Boise State, Louisiana will face the McNeese Cowboys on Saturday, Sept. 10, and the South Alabama Jaguars on Saturday, Sept. 17. Both games begin at 6 p.m. at Cajun Field.
Donations to the University Annual Fund can also be made online, by mail or by phone at (337) 482-0700.
Checks made payable to the UL Lafayette Foundation should be mailed to: P.O. Box 44290, Lafayette, LA 70504. Please note on the memo line Student Emergency Relief.