Expanding Access to Education with College Student Financial Aid

The past year has been an eye-opening experience, with people from all walks of life facing unexpected challenges. However, one of the groups hit hardest by financial instability has been college students struggling to afford education.

The Growing Need for College Financial Assistance for Low-Income Students

• Over 20% of community college students in California are homeless.
• Nearly one-third of college students in CA experience food and housing insecurity.
• When classes moved online, 100,000+ students reported being unable to access a functioning laptop.

Without access to educational resources for struggling students, thousands are forced to pause or abandon their studies, putting their futures at risk.

Helping Students Afford College Education Through Technology

To address this crisis, Moms Against Poverty, in collaboration with Santa Ana College, provided 25 laptops to students in need of college financial assistance for low-income students. This initiative ensured that these students could continue their studies, complete coursework, and pursue their educational goals despite financial hardship.

Here are a few messages of gratitude from students who benefited from this program.

Education is the Foundation of a Better Future

This past year has shown us how quickly life can change. Students are the future, and we must continue supporting them by helping students afford college education through scholarships, technology access, and financial aid programs.

By working together, we can provide critical educational resources that empower students to achieve academic success and break the cycle of poverty.

Let’s keep making a difference—one student at a time.

“This year I am planning on finally getting my high school diploma. This laptop is going to provide me with the tools I need. I only have a few more classes to complete. Due to COVID I was not able to continue my studies but with this laptop I will even be able to take more than one class and finish sooner than I had expected. After I receive my diploma, I will be able to have a higher-paying job, all thanks to your help.” – Julie

“This laptop is going to help me take my classes using a computer instead of my cell phone and be able to see the class on a bigger screen. Thank you for this computer which is making it easier for me to take my classes and be able to finish my courses as soon as possible.” – Alicia

“This laptop will make my life 100 times less stressful – thank you! I can concentrate on my actual classes now instead of trying to jump over more hurdles/fences trying to troubleshoot my old non-functioning laptop.” – Nora

“I am writing to you with gratitude for the laptop provided, since with it, I will be able to continue my studies of English as a second language online with Santa Ana College. Due to the pandemic of Covid-19, we have not been able to attend classes at SAC and economically we are going through a very critical moment. Thank you.” – Andres

This past year has taught us that our situations can change in a blink of an eye. Students are our future, so let’s continue to do our part and help those who are in need.