The California State University system has seen a huge decline in the amount of monetary contributions made to its schools.

In the past year, CSU has seen a 12.5 percent decrease in monetary contributions from the year prior.

Charles B. Reed, chancellor for California State University, says California’s financial crisis, paired with a larger demand for higher education, is to blame.

“Like most public universities throughout the country, the California State University is challenged with determining how to serve more students with fewer resources,” he said in a press release.

$265 million may seem like a lot of money, but it’s small in comparison to the nearly $440 million the schools received just three school years ago.

Included in these figures are monetary gifts and pledge payments. These funds go to a wide variety of programs, including student scholarships, academic programs, faculty compensation, athletics and other university needs. These gifts are given by parents, alumni and other philanthropic sources.

“While some of our funding has been restored for 2011, we are still in a precarious position as the state budget shortfall is predicted to increase in the coming years,” Reed said. “But our focus on serving students has been — and must continue to be — unwavering.”