Penn State Athletics has reinstated its “ONE TEAM” donation initiative to help cover funds it’s lost due to the coronavirus pandemic, the department announced Wednesday.

In a comprehensive letter to Nittany Lion Club members, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Sandy Barbour touched on key issues Penn State Athletics has faced during the pandemic.

“The difficult reality is our loss of revenue is forecasted to total as much as $70 million or more,” Barbour said. “We pride ourselves on being able to realize our mission of helping student-athletes create a lifetime of impact without state funds or significant financial support from the University.”

Barbour added Athletics has employed “drastic” cost-cutting measures, including reducing budgets and salaries, refinancing debt, and implementing furloughs.

Through donations, the ONE TEAM initiative includes an investment into the 800-plus student athletes representing Penn State at the collegiate level through two funds. The Levi Lamb Fund and the Returning Senior Fund support student athletes with scholarships, tutoring, nutrition, and facility maintenance.

Barbour encouraged the Penn State community to join in supporting Penn State athletes and their goals for success.

“We recognize current circumstances have likely impacted you and your loved ones, and we consider ourselves fortunate to have thousands of Penn State fans already reached out to help us through this difficult time,” Barbour said. “If you are able, we hope you will join the fight to help our student-athletes fulfill their dreams with a gift to the Levi Lamb Fund.”

Donations for the ONE TEAM initiative can be made here.

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