Since March 12th, we have personally connected with over 100 students to determine their specific needs. Not surprisingly, 77% of our students have lost wages, 61% are having trouble paying rent, and 45% are in need of food resources. Using a one-to-one approach, here's how we're trying to help:
- We've mailed over $4,000 in grocery gift cards in March, and will send out a second round in April as we continue to shelter in place.
- As many of our students don’t qualify for government support, we’ve pulled together an online list of resources offering rent, food and other assistance.
- We've provided laptops to students for online learning and set up an emergency internet fund for those lacking home internet access.
- We've moved our Habla Más program online to ensure our student Spanish coaches could continue to build their businesses.
I want to give
a special thank you to our incredible volunteer tutors
who have moved to virtual tutoring to keep our students engaged and on track. I recognize these are challenging times for many of you, and I appreciate your flexibility and commitment to working with our students in these new ways.
When we call and speak with our students directly, they share how much they appreciate Upward Scholars’ concern and assistance and how, just our reaching out to them makes them feel less alone during these challenging times. This kind of individualized support could not happen without your ongoing and generous commitment to our students' well being.
Each one of you are in my thoughts, and I wish you continued good health.
Be well,
Dr. Linda Prieto
Executive Director
