Giving Day raises over £322,527 to support students and mental health at York

Posted on 12 November 2024

The University of York's annual Giving Day, held on 6–7 November, achieved an impressive milestone by raising over £322,527 to support students and mental health.

An image of three students sat together on Greg's Place, framed by a circle, next to text that reads: 'Thank you! Together we raised over £320,000 to support students and mental health at York'

This year's annual Giving Day held from 6 to 7 November has raised an incredible £322,527 to support students and mental health at York.

The funds were raised through the kindness of 733 generous donors, and supported by 101 ambassadors who championed the cause through spreading the word.

The total surpassed the money raised from last year's Giving Day, which means more money than ever will go towards supporting four vital causes at York:

University of Opportunity: Creating opportunities for York students to realise their potential at every stage, regardless of their life challenges.

Mentally Fit York: Funding on-the-ground initiatives and groundbreaking research to improve mental health among students and in the wider community.

York Sanctuary Fund: Supporting students and academics displaced by conflict, including providing scholarships to asylum seeking students and supporting human rights defenders.

Generation Research: Offering STEM students from all backgrounds the opportunity to explore research and technical science roles as a career.

Various challenges left by generous donors meant that extra money was unlocked for each cause. Additionally, alumnus and longtime supporter Dr. Anthony H. Wild, made a substantial impact by offering a match donation that doubled £100,000 of donations raised during the event.

Donors left heartfelt messages reflecting the importance of the day’s efforts:

"In times of global turbulence and turmoil, it's more important than ever that we nurture and support one another. So everyone has chance to thrive."

"Education is an amazing gift opening up limitless possibilities. Having had the benefit of an entirely free education I am pleased to support those for whom this simply isn’t possible."

"One of my wonderful alumni is now doing amazing sustainability work with small businesses. As a second year student she had delays in receiving her loan, was struggling to pay for her accommodation and was skipping meals and missing classes. £30 helped her on a tough day. Now she helps others!"

Thanks to the kindness of those who donated, we'll be able to support more students from less advantaged backgrounds to access an education at York and thrive while here, and improve mental health in York and beyond.

Thank you to everyone who supported Giving Day 2024!