Cerritos College Foundation Provides Nearly $100K in COVID-19 Student Aid
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 14, 2020
Media Contact: Aya Abelon; Public Affairs
NORWALK, Calif. – September 14, 2020 – When the pandemic forced Cerritos College to transition to an online format, the Cerritos College Foundation stepped in to launch the Student Emergency Fund campaign to help students meet their basic daily needs. The Foundation received a lead gift of $10,000 from PIH Health to support students.
The campaign continues to raise funds to provide emergency aid to Cerritos College students with unexpected financial challenges. Funds and resources are given to help students with groceries, housing, school supplies, and technology support so they can stay on track to complete their educational goals. So far, the campaign has raised more than $73,000 to support students. The Foundation has allocated an additional $25,000 for emergency support using existing funds, totaling nearly $100,000.
The Foundation supported Sherri Hardin, a nursing student, who received the emergency financial assistance. “I graduated from Cerritos College in spring 2020 with an associate degree in nursing. The financial assistance from the Foundation helped me pay for the National Council Licensure Examination and aided in helping me pay for daycare as I completed my preceptor hours at an urgent care facility. Without the Foundation’s help, I may not have been able to afford childcare and complete my preceptor hours,” said Sherri.
Phase two of the campaign is underway, with a goal of raising another $50,000 or more to support Cerritos College students this fall. Supporters are encouraged to “Give Where You Live” by joining a team to support students in their local community, and to “Fund Our Future Workforce” by joining a team to support students in nursing, childcare, business, or other career areas. Teams have been set up for Artesia, Bellflower, Downey, Norwalk and other area cities. Supporters are invited to start their own teams as well. Details of the campaign can be found at FalconsCare.org. The Foundation will also sponsor a virtual 5K race in September to raise funds for the campaign. Students can apply for aid by submitting the emergency aid request form.
“Students are facing incredible difficulties such as food, financial, and housing insecurity, and lack of equipment and resources to continue their studies at home as they navigate these challenging times,” said Carol Krumbach, executive director, Cerritos College Foundation. “We will continue our fundraising efforts and do everything we can to support their education and future.”
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