Bridge the Gap Campaign and Virtual Event
Bridge the Gap for Students Like Joel!

An enthusiastic student who came to the United States from Jamaica only seven years ago, Joel McLeod is hitting his stride at Cristo Rey Boston High School. Joel's family values education, and he plans to follow in his older sister's and brother's footsteps by earning his college degree. Joel enjoys science and his favorite subject is physics. Biology is a challenge, but he persists.
 
Joel was intimidated by the prospect of a corporate work study placement when he first arrived at Cristo Rey Boston. But he's gained confidence in each position, learning from his supervisors and acquiring valuable work experience. Joel's first position was at the Whittier Street Health Center; the following year he moved to a prominent Boston engineering firm. There, Joel's supervisor nurtured his enthusiasm and supported his efforts as he gained skills and knowledge particular to the engineering industry. Joel hoped to return to his position this fall, however his site is unable to host students due to the impact of COVID-19. Joel is now participating in our Microsoft Office Suite skills development program until he can return to his worksite.
 
The current situation at Joel's placement is not unique among our CWSP sponsors. Most of our students are not yet able to return to their place of employment due to workplace changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our students earn half of their education costs through their internships. Since only 50% of Cristo Rey Boston's students are employed this fall, we need to rely on the generosity of donors to cover the cost of their tuition.

 
Help us Bridge the Gap to ensure that our students can continue their education at Cristo Rey Boston! 


 
Where is the Gap?

While the cost of each student's education is $18,000, that amount is offset by our Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP).

COVID-19 has drastically impacted the CWSP. It has affected our corporate partners' ability to provide jobs for our students, either because of COVID-related economic downturn or because offices will not be open to host the students.  

We need to raise $9,000 per student to make up for lost jobs. This represents 22% of our operating budget, on top of our normal fundraising goals. 

In a typical year, all of our students would have jobs.
What Can You Do Now?

Donate- and tell your friends about Cristo Rey Boston and our unique mission! 

Your donations will help cover the tuition gaps created by COVID-19 and ensure that the cost of education remains affordable to our students and their families.

Your generous support will be recognized 


 
CRISTO REY BOSTON CORE VALUES

DIGNITY * PERSEVERANCE * GROWTH * GENEROSITY 
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