Steny Elizabeth Shaji, who was studying psychology, died on January 1.
A GoFundMe page has now been set up by the Union of United Kingdom Malayalee Associations (UUKMA), a charity which supports people from Kerala, India, who have moved to the UK.
The money raised will go to Steny’s family to help with funeral expenses and the cost of sending her body back to her home town in Gujarat.
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UUKMA claimed her death came after she suffered “flu-like symptoms”.
It said the student’s family have been left “heartbroken” and “struggling to cover the essential expenses that come with such an overwhelming loss”.
On Steny’s GoFundMe page, the charity said: “We ask for your generosity in helping to provide financial relief for Steny’s family as they navigate through this difficult period.
“Your kindness and support will help them rebuild their lives and find comfort as they move forward without their loved one.”
Steny was from Pathanamthitta, in Kerala, but lived with her family in Rajghat, Gujarat, before moving to the UK to pursue her studies.
To pay for her education and expenses in the UK, the 27-year-old’s family took out loans and now the family needs “financial help”, says Dr Biju Peringathara, UUKMA president.
He told the Recorder that the charity received an “official request” from her father to support the family.
Steny was an active member of St George’s Indian Orthodox Church in London, and was involved in its youth movement alongside her studies at the University of East London.
A spokesperson for UEL said: “We are deeply saddened by the news that Steny Elizabeth Shaji has passed away.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the student’s family and close friends at this difficult time.
“We are liaising closely with family and providing support to friends, classmates and staff at our university.”
The Recorder has contacted St George’s Indian Orthodox Church for a tribute.
To donate to the fundraiser, visit the GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/f/miss-steny-elizabeth-shaji-27.
