The recent wildfires and their effects impact many of our campus community and their loved ones. Many of our Mountain Lions call the affected regions home, and some may be facing evacuations, property loss, displacement, or uncertainty as these fires continue.
UCCS remains committed to providing support and resources to our students during this difficult time. See below for resources and assistance.
Wildfire Resourcing and Support Form
The Office of the Dean of Students has reached out directly to students who were enrolled at UCCS during the Spring semester, are currently enrolled in Summer courses, or are registered for Fall courses and whose CU-listed home address is located within zip codes impacted by the current Colorado wildfires. They are encouraging impacted students to complete the Wildfire Resourcing and Support Form so they can assess their needs, coordinate resources and track the support provided: Wildfire Resourcing and Support Form.
As families and students contact The Office of the Dean of Students directly, their staff are also completing the form on the student’s behalf during those conversations. If you become aware of a student who has been impacted, we encourage you to do the same or direct the student to complete the form themselves.
The Office of the Dean of Students has also established a Support for Students Impacted by the Colorado Wildfires page, with both on- and off-campus resources that can also be found below.
On-Campus Support and Resources
CARE Team Support
Students who are experiencing distress, facing personal challenges, or who need help navigating campus resources can be referred to the CARE Team. The CARE Team helps connect students with appropriate campus support services, including academic, mental health, and basic needs resources. Students, faculty, and staff may submit a Colorado Wildfire Resourcing and Support referral if they are concerned about a student’s wellbeing.
Clyde’s Cupboard & Basic Needs Support
Students experiencing food insecurity can access Clyde’s Cupboard, UCCS’ on-campus food pantry. The pantry provides free food and hygiene items to help support students experiencing financial hardship.
Academic Flexibility
We understand that students with ties to affected regions may be experiencing stress, communication challenges with family, or unexpected responsibilities. The university is working with faculty to provide awareness and flexibility for students from impacted regions of the state. Students who are experiencing academic challenges related to these circumstances are encouraged to reach out to their instructors or contact the Office of the Dean of Students for support.
Mental Health Services – The Wellness Center
Those who have been impacted by the Colorado wildfires or are facing uncertainty may experience stress, anxiety, grief, or other emotional challenges. UCCS offers confidential counseling and mental health resources through the Wellness Center for students who need support during difficult times.
Off-Campus Support and Resources
Mental Health Support – TELUS Health
TELUS Health provides free, confidential mental health and wellbeing support 24/7 with the Student Support app. To find information for UCCS students, faculty, and staff, please visit TELUS Health Resources.
Wildfire Information & Resources – Colorado 211
Colorado 211 is a confidential and multilingual service that connects individuals with community resources across the state. Colorado 211 has specific community resources for areas impacted by active wildfires. Support includes assistance with food and housing resources, mental health support, financial assistance, and community services. Call 2-1-1 or 866-760-6489 for direct connection to supports.
Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control
The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control’s Wildfire Information & Resource Center provides up-to-date information on active wildfires, evacuation resources, emergency preparedness, recovery guidance, and tools to help individuals and communities stay informed before, during, and after wildfire events.
Recovering from the Impacts of a Wildfire – TELUS Health
TELUS Health also has guidance for individuals whose lives have been impacted by a fire. This guide can be found at TELUS Health – Wildfire Resources.