Every year, Student Union allows student groups to appeal for a lump sum directly out of its general budget. These funds, called block funding, allow groups to pay for long-term, high-cost initiatives without going through the typical allocation process.

To be considered for block funding, a group must draft a proposal, obtain signatures from 15 percent of the student body in favor of it, and be approved by the election commissioner. In order to receive the funds, two thirds of the students who participate in the general election must vote in favor of it.

This year, four groups are appealing for block funding:

Habitat for Humanity

The campus chapter of the national volunteer organization is appealing for $14,570 to fund its activities and projects for the next two years. In the upcoming year, the group plans to spend about $3,300 on its fall and spring break trips, $1,200 on two trivia nights, and about $1,500 on a building challenge and two building days in the spring.

KWUR

Washington University’s student-run radio station is asking for $62,066.66 to pay for its projects over the upcoming year. It is asking for $35,000 to fund KWUR Week, about $10,000 for equipment renovations, $4,200 in operating expenses, and about $3,000 for T-shirts, food and coffee.

S.A.R.A.H.

The 24/7 student-run Sexual Assault and Rape Anonymous Helpline is appealing for $13,280 to fund its service over the upcoming two years. The group, while not disclosing its specific expenses, says the money will be spent on technology, training, and educational, publicity and outreach materials.

Student Sustainability Fund

The three-year-old group that promotes student sustainability projects, made up of representatives from both the student body and the University’s faculty, is asking for $30,000 to continue allocating funds for the next two years. In addition to the amount requested from Student Union, the Office of Sustainability has pledged to give the group $10,000 per year to continue funding a variety of projects.