YouthBuild Charter School of California was founded during the 2008 recession, when millions of young adults across our state were losing hope due to dire economic conditions. These days we have seen a dramatic increase in students who are facing some of the same crises due to loss of benefits, unemployment, and the high cost of food and rent. We are particularly noticing an increase in unhoused students.
We established the Building Hope Crisis Fund to support students like "Victor," who was nodding off in class and admitted that he'd slept on the streets the night before ... for "Patricia," who shared that her mom hasn't been able to buy groceries for weeks ... for "Juan," who hasn't been afford to diapers and formula for his baby girl ... and for "Lucy," who was distraught over an eviction notice, fearful that she, her husband and kids were going to end up homeless, perhaps end up in a tent on Skid Row.
Teachers and counselors are on the front lines of the crises our students are facing. When they hear of a challenge, they submit an application to their principal for the Building Hope Crisis Fund. Upon approval of the request, adminstrative staff take students to check into a hotel with a voucher, pay for groceries or give students clothing gift cards.
Lucy said: "I'm so thankful for the funding I have received because it has allowed me and my family to stay in our home with our three kids when we were on the verge of eviction. This has also allowed me to continue going to school and has taken a mental load off. Thank you."
Please use the Donation Form below to give today. Or, choose items off our Amazon Wish List, a carefully curated list of items that students need most in order to take care of themselves and/or their families and stay in school.
The needs are urgent. Your gift to the Building Hope Crisis Fund ensures that a crisis doesn't come a way of life.
If you have questions, contact Cathy Brandt, development director, at [email protected] or (323) 610-9478.