Penn State’s Vice President for Student Affairs Andrea Dowhower offered resources and support to students experiencing power outages due to the severe thunderstorms on Tuesday night, in a statement released Wednesday afternoon.

Although many off-campus facilities and housing don’t have electricity, a majority of campus is still fully functioning, and classes are being held as scheduled, according to Dowhower. Penn State WiFi is still available across campus, including Patee and Paterno libraries.

With nearly 8,885 homes and businesses impacted by the power outages, many, including Penn State students, Dowhower emphasized the importance of students prioritizing their well-being during this time while offering university resources. Students who are currently facing housing-related issues, such as loss of power, heating, or water, or who no longer have a living space are encouraged to utilize the on-campus resources available.

To ensure students have basic needs like housing, food, and utilities, Student Care and Advocacy serves as a central point of contact. Students can complete this basic needs request form, and a case manager will provide guidance and next steps.

Housing and Food Services will offer the campus community a $10 all-you-can-eat option for lunch and dinner at every dining hall, excluding HUB dining.

Lion’s Pantry provides food and hygiene products for students facing basic needs insecurity, and still remains a resource for all students at this time. Local 24/7 crisis support resource Centre Helps can assist with emergency housing, food, and mental health services.

According to Downhower, all campus recreation facilities are open for all students to access showers with hot water and bathrooms, and the HUB is still operating 24/7 with power, as a safe space for students.

Per the statement, free legal assistance is available through Student Legal Services for eligible students with housing disputes and landlord issues. Students can call 814-867-4388, or visit the website here for assistance.

Students who need additional support and our impacted in any facet by these issues can reach out to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 814-863-0395. Emergency services are accessible at 1-877-229-6400 after hours.