Changing Lives
For almost 40 years, your support of the Benevolent Fund has helped change the lives of thousands of people. You have helped provide nutritious meals to food-insecure students. You have provided housing to people in need and financial support to local non-profits. Read on to find out how your support makes a difference.
Featured Stories
Blazer Kitchen: Turning Awareness into Access
Jenny Keogh didn't expect an internship at Blazer Kitchen to shape the course of her career.
From Fear to Freedom: Megan Curtis-Agarwal’s Life Changed by Special Equestrians
Megan Curtis-Agarwal has cerebral-palsy, a medical condition that prevents her from running and jumping. When presented with the opportunity to ride horses, she expressed doubt.
Social Work Student Sees the Far-Reaching Impact of Blazer Kitchen
During her internship at Blazer Kitchen, Master of Social Work student Anai Dubon saw firsthand how a university food pantry could make a difference for a wide range of people.
Blazer Kitchen Shopper Testimony: Shah Hetvi
Discovering Blazer Kitchen has been a true game changer for Shah Hetvi as she navigates the whirlwind of graduate studies—balancing rigorous academics, living expenses, and daily essentials.
Donor Highlight: Davida Hill
Since joining UAB in 2012 as a Certified Medical Assistant in Orthopaedic Surgery, Davida Hill has built a career rooted in compassion and care.
From Serving Others to Seeking Help: UAB Caregiver Finds Strength Through Support
Brandon House is an advanced endoscopy technician at UAB who previously served in the U.S. Army. He’s no stranger to serving the most vulnerable in tough moments.
Another Successful Spring Campaign
Thanks to the outpouring of support, the 2026 UAB Benevolent Fund Spring Campaign has exceeded its goal! Together, we can make a difference. Please view this special message from UAB Benevolent Fund Manager, Lisa Higginbotham.
Why I Give: Wally Carlo
When people ask me how many years I’ve been giving to the UAB Benevolent Fund, my answer is pretty simple: I honestly don’t remember. I’ve been giving since the very first time I was asked. It never felt like something I needed to think too hard about or revisit later - it just felt like the right thing to do, so I’ve continued ever since.
Why I Give: Tim Pennycuff
Giving to the Benevolent Fund has simply become part of my life at UAB, something I’ve done for so may years that it feels natural rather than intentional.
Why I Give: Michelle Peterson
I know firsthand how it feels to go through hard times and need a little help to get back on your feet. When you’re struggling, even a small amount of support can make a huge difference. The Benevolent Fund was there for me when I needed it, and that kindness stayed with me long after the immediate situation passed.
Blazer Kitchen Garden
In the heart of Birmingham, nestled behind the hum of campus life, the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) Blazer Kitchen Garden is quietly transforming the way a community thinks about food, education, and sustainability.
A Source of Comfort
The Employee Emergency Assistance Program provided much-needed financial support to Jean Claude LeBlanc after a house fire.
Fighting Food Insecurity
Just this year, Blazer Kitchen has provided over 128,000 meals to food-insecure students, employees and patients.