UNC Athletics and the Rams Club have launched the Helping Heels Fund — a crowdfunding campaign that gives Tar Heel fans the opportunity to provide financial assistance to student-athletes who are facing hardships as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

“The number of people who have reached out, offering to help our student-athletes during this time of world crisis, has been both humbling and heartening – because we know so many of our fans are facing hardships themselves,” said UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham. “Many of our Tar Heels and their families, like so many more across our state, nation and world, are facing challenges because of this terrible pandemic, and this fund is an opportunity to offer resources beyond what our department is currently able to provide.”

Donations made through the Helping Heels Fund will directly assist student-athletes and their families with expenses as allowed by NCAA regulations. Those expenses can include medical bills and other necessary expenses – such as groceries, toiletries, technology for online classes and remote learning and training and more

Earlier this year, NCAA spring sports were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic but student-athletes have been given an additional year of eligibility in compensation.

While UNC is preparing for students to return to campus in the fall, many plans are being considered. Cunningham told 97.9 The Hill that he cannot see fall sports continuing without students on campus.

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