Illinois State University is providing a unique opportunity to give back to students and get Redbird fans game-ready with the popular Homecoming spirit tote.
The Homecoming tote includes a one-of-a-kind Redbird scarf, Illinois State sunglasses and tissues, poms, and 2023 Homecoming items. Everything a true Redbird fan needs to reign at Homecoming. The tote itself follows Redbird Athletics’ clear bag policy and can be brought into the game.
Proceeds from each Homecoming spirit tote will support the Red and White Scholarship, an emergency fund for students facing unexpected financial hardship. When life throws curveballs to fellow Redbirds, the Red & White Scholarship Fund is there to lend a hand and keep students on track toward their goals.
Donations to the Red and White Scholarship change lives for students like Zakia Hart, who spent two weeks in the hospital after breaking her pelvis and two months recovering at home and unable to work.
“The Red and White Scholarship solved many of my financial responsibilities,” said Zakia. “It lifted a burden off me, and I’m so grateful for that.”
Red and White Scholarship recipient Cameron Hart found himself on the verge of homelessness when his mother lost her job and his father’s work hours were cut. Because of generous Redbird donors to the Red and White Scholarship, Hart received the support to catch up on his housing payments, which allowed him the peace of mind to focus on his studies.
Make your gift of $50 for a 2023 Homecoming spirit tote on Hatch, Illinois State’s crowdfunding platform, and a portion of your purchase will be a tax-deductible gift to assist a Redbird student in need. A limited quantity is available so don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to gear up, celebrate the red and support Redbird students.
Spirit totes will be ready for pickup on Homecoming Saturday or can be shipped to homes to be ready for the fall weather. Totes will be available 9-11 a.m. October 14 in the Circus Room of the Bone Student Center. To receive by mail, gifts must be made by October 1. Instructions for pickup will also be emailed upon purchase.
