Rest Assured 2026

Providing Comfort, Dignity, and Support to International Students at Iowa State University

Our Mission

Every student deserves a supportive and nurturing environment to succeed academically. However, for many international students at Iowa State University, even basic necessities — such as owning a comfortable bed — can be financially out of reach.

That’s why we are launching the Rest Assured fundraiser to provide beds for international students in need — and we need your support.

The International Student Council (ISC) at Iowa State University, in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa, dedicated faculty and staff, and members of the Ames community, is working together to address this pressing issue.

Our goal is simple but impactful:
To ensure that every new international student with limited financial resources can begin their educational journey with dignity, comfort, and stability by receiving a bed of their own.

Your donation directly helps transform lives and empowers students to focus on what matters most — their education.

When you give to Rest Assured, you are not just providing a mattress. 

You are giving stability during one of the most vulnerable transitions of a student’s life.

You are helping them rest so they can rise.

Why This Matters

Relocating to a foreign country for higher education is a monumental step. It often comes with emotional adjustments and significant financial strain. Many new international students arrive in Ames facing unexpected costs, including unfurnished apartments and limited access to community support networks.

For some, something as essential as a bed becomes a challenge.

Your contribution — regardless of size — removes a major barrier to academic and personal success. A bed is more than furniture. It provides:

1. Stability during a major life transition
2. Physical rest essential for academic performance
3. A sense of belonging and care from the community
4. Dignity in starting a new chapter

Voices from Rest Assured Recipients

“As an international student, this donation was vital. It saved me a lot of hassle and cost in my early days on campus.”

“It was my first time living overseas. I felt so supported when I received the donated bed from ISC. Without them, I might have struggled to find, assemble, and afford one. Because of them, I did not have to sleep on the floor.”

“The mattress was very good quality and delivered right on time. The initiative was well thought out for international students who were new and had no local connections.”

“I moved to Iowa with my husband, and we were unaware that our apartment was unfurnished. Participating in the Rest Assured initiative meant we at least had a place to sleep.”

“Their kindness touched me. I now try to give back within my capacity, hoping to make our community more welcoming.”

These stories reflect the tangible impact your generosity creates.

Our Impact

Together, we can build a compassionate and inclusive community that recognizes the importance of supporting international students.

With your support, we can:

1. Provide high-quality beds and mattresses to incoming students
2. Ease financial stress during their transition
3. Foster a stronger, more welcoming Ames community
4. Help students rest assured — and dream big

Let’s ensure that every student at Iowa State University can begin their journey with comfort, confidence, and care.

How to Donate

We gratefully accept both online donations and checks.

Checks should be made payable to:
ISU Foundation

Mail to:
ISU Foundation
PO Box 2230
Ames, IA 50010

Please include the name of our FundISU project on your check.

For questions or to discuss your gift, please contact:
fundisu@foundation.iastate.edu
515-297-8616