A Week of Caring

When Mercer announced that students would not be returning to classes on campus during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of you reached out to ask how you could help. During this difficult and uncertain public health threat, countless members of our Mercer community will experience financial hardships. A gift to the The Mercer Fund or the Student Hardship Scholarship Fund lets our students know that we have their backs and offers timely financial help that can lead to peace of mind and academic success.

In times of crisis, the Mercer community always responds with compassion, grace and generosity. We are confident that now will be no different and that, with your help, we can better protect and support the educational and financial needs of our students.

We recognize many are impacted by COVID-19, directly and indirectly. We are grateful if you can help, but if this is not the right time for you, please know we appreciate your consideration and hope you will support Mercer students in the future.

 To stay up to date on the University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, follow https://www.mercer.edu/coronavirus/.

Charitable Giving Incentive:

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) (S. 748) provides a significant Charitable Giving Incentive. The bill includes a new above-the-line deduction (universal or non-itemizer deduction that applies to all taxpayers) for total charitable contributions of up to $300. The incentive applies to contributions made in 2020 and would be claimed on tax forms next year. Section 2204. The bill also lifts the existing cap on annual contributions for those who itemize, raising it from 60 percent of adjusted gross income to 100 percent.*

*Please consult with your professional tax advisor on the potential tax benefits of your gift.