FAS Statement in Support of the Valencian Region

The Fundació Autònoma Solidària (FAS) extends its deepest sympathies and solidarity to all those affected by the recent DANA storm. Since Wednesday, our hearts have been heavy with the collective anguish, frustration, and sorrow caused by the devastation. We stand in full support of those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods, and we share in the grief of those still waiting for news of missing friends and family members.

These tragic days have also seen an inspiring response from the public. The motto "The people save the people" resonated deeply and served as a powerful reminder of the solidarity that defines us. At FAS, this spirit of mutual aid is in line with our 25 years of promoting volunteerism at the university. In the midst of the sadness, we found hope in the actions of so many young people who stepped up to help - shovels in hand, sleeves rolled up to clear mud and debris. The commitment of young people is often questioned, but once again they have shown themselves to be a committed and powerful force for change. We are deeply grateful to all those who have stepped up to help in these difficult times, and to those who continue their vital efforts every day. We would like to send a heartfelt message of gratitude: thank you to everyone who has mobilised and continues to do this vital work every day.

On Saturday, 2^nd November, FAS shared a message of condolences and solidarity on our social media accounts and provided a list of trusted organisations where members of the public could make donations. This was done in coordination with other universities and organisations to streamline collective efforts.

Today, the UAB has launched a crowdfunding campaign aimed at the university community to encourage financial donations, which will be managed by FAS. In the coming days and weeks, we will work to identify the most appropriate uses for the funds raised. This catastrophe has had far-reaching effects, and FAS is committed to ensuring that these resources are allocated in alignment with our mission, focusing on the socio-educational sector’s needs. We pledge to collaborate with organisations and academic centres in the affected areas of the Valencian Region to direct the funds effectively, addressing their most pressing priorities. This process will be carried out with care, critical thinking, and a commitment to transparency, and we will provide updates with the utmost clarity.

We also offer our support to other solidarity, awareness-raising, and mobilisation initiatives within the university community. We are confident that these efforts will be numerous and invaluable.