MiraCosta College Transforming Lives Newsletter - Spring 2021

V O L U M E XX I X S P R I N G 2 0 21 MiraCostaTransforming Lives Accomplishing Goals Even Through the Difficult Times.

Friends of MiraCosta College: These last 12-months have been filled with many challenges! Yet MiraCosta College responded to a global health threat, evolving changes in our society, and subsequent economic uncertainties in powerful ways. Since 1934, MiraCosta has faced challenges by transforming them into opportunities and we are doing so once again. In this edition of Transforming Lives, please enjoy reading about how, through the collaboration of generous donations from the community and innovative staff, MiraCosta was able to help students through these challenging times. Ranging from food insecurities to a technological divide, as well as career and workforce uncertainty, MiraCosta has been steadfast in ensuring students received holistic support to mitigate disruption in their educational journey. In order to expand opportunities for students, MiraCosta College was selected to deploy a Federal Work Study Pilot Programv. MiraCosta students now have additional opportunities to earn while they learn. Students can apply for paid off-campus internships that provide the necessary hands-on experience related to their area of study. This pilot program is aimed at increasing partnerships between community colleges and local industries, boosting student success rates, reducing student debt, and increasing post-graduation employment options. Additionally, MiraCosta College made history as the only community college in California to offer new online Social Work and Human Services programs that prepare students for careers in fields with a growing number of job opportunities. Through close collaboration with community leaders in the development of this program, graduates can earn solid middle-class wages, while helping people in our community at a time when we all need it most. My sincerest appreciation to the MiraCosta College community for your continuous partnership, financial support, and engagement. Thanks to the faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and Board of Trustees for your commitment and courage, dedication, tireless service, and innovation helping us to rise to the moment in support of our students and our community! Sunita V. Cooke, Ph.D. Superintendent/President MiraCosta College

Our beautiful Oceanside Campus, where nearly 10,000 The award-winning MiraCosta, students study under blue skies and warm weather, Transforming Lives is published looks a bit quiet during the pandemic. by the MiraCosta College Office of Institutional Advancement. We greatly appreciate the participation of those who allowed us to share their stories. V O L U M E XX I X S P R I N G 2 0 21 MiraCostaTransforming Lives Accomplishing Goals Even Through the Difficult Times. On the Cover For students like Ismael Ramos, a free laptop is more than a tool in the classroom—it’s a lifeline. Read his story on page 20. Editorial Director Kristen Huyck, Ed.D. Cynthia Rice Art Director/Photographer Alex Karvounis Contributing Writers France Cruz, Ed.D. Tori Fishinger Kristen Huyck, Ed.D. Jeanne Koschwanez Christi Middlesworth Justin Nunez David Ogul Caleb Rainey Elizabeth Varel Susan Walker Learn More at foundation.miracosta.edu C o mme n t s o r Q u e s t i o n s 760.795.6777 Foundation Board Alec Babiarz President Raye Clendening Vice President Bruce Bandemer Treasurer Matt Adams Julie Ames Nina Cacioppo Dr. Bill Cardoso Bessie Chin Jimmy Figueora Dr. Barry Johnson George Karetas Dr. Janice Kurth Stephen “Hap” L’Heureux David McGuigan Karen Pearson Valencia \"Val\" Saadat Sudershan Shaunak Tim Snodgrass Denise Stillinger Kimberly Troutman Janet Wennes Dr. Sharon Wiback 3

FOOD INSECURITY HITS HOME Drive-Thru Food Distribution Delivers 43,000 Pounds of Healthy Meals in Five Months

produce Food insecurity has always been a vefrgueittables serious challenge within San Diego County. Even before the pandemic, one in seven local households were at risk, according to research from the San Diego Hunger Coalition. Once COVID-19 hit, that number ballooned to one in three. Combine that with the fact that nearly half of MiraCosta College our MiraCosta College students subsist on an annual individual students face, we are often income of less than $18,000, and it’s easy to referring to issues with food, housing, transportation, mental health, childcare, finances, technology, and more.” Among the many services provided by the school, the on-campus food pantry and monthly farmers market have become critical resources for students struggling with food insecurity. Any student enrolled at MiraCosta qualified for these services, and each month, the school provided meals, produce, and snacks to more than 1,200 students. But when California campuses were forced to close, that support was cut off entirely. Initially, staff members were able to connect students with other resources throughout the region but as days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, the MiraCosta College CARE team started CARE Program Manager Devon Boone directs more than 30 volunteers brainstorming a more sustainable option during a recent drive-thru food distribution on the Oceanside Campus. tailored to the needs of students. “We knew we needed to find a solution, and fast,” recalled Boone. “The see why community college students and their question was how to continue feeding families have been among the hardest hit by the students in a safe, healthy way when current health and economic crisis. campus was closed.” According to a survey from the college The process took a significant amount distributed in fall, more than 2,500 MiraCosta of planning and collaboration among students reported they were struggling with basic MiraCosta College departments and needs. And that number is likely lower than the partners. The Office of Student Affairs actual amount of need that exists. Staff estimate worked with the Facilities and College that as the pandemic has worsened and continued Police departments, as well as longtime into 2021, thousands more students will require partner the San Diego Food Bank, to support in some form or another. establish safe protocols and map out the logistics of a drive-thru farmers market “All students, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, need their basic needs met for food distribution. in order to reach their fullest potential,” explained “At the beginning, we didn’t know Devon Boone, Campus Assessment, Resources and Education (CARE) Manager at MiraCosta what to expect or how many students College. “When we think about the challenges would show up,” explained Boone. “We knew it was a vital resource we were 5

providing but that first distribution was truly eye opening.” On June 23, the day of the first drive-thru food distribution, more than 150 cars and 200 students showed up to receive pre-packaged grocery bags of produce and dry goods. Since then, the numbers have only increased. “This is the first time I have had to do something like this and the timing was impeccable since I did not know how I would be able to feed my child for the rest of the month,” shared one MiraCosta College student when picking up her package of food. “I can't believe how much I received. It is just me and my son and I have limited resources and am barely making it every month. The last couple months have been so incredibly hard and I am forever grateful.” From the start of the drive-thru food distribution in the summer to November 2020, MiraCosta College provided more than 43,000 pounds of food to students in need. Quality was also a major focus for staff. Thanks to the partnership with the San Diego Food Bank, the college has been able to provide students with even more variety than they were accustomed to. Pre-packaged grocery bags have included everything from fresh produce, eggs, and dairy, to a variety of cheese and meats. “Each month is different and we find out in advance what new foods we’ll be receiving so that we can create menus with recipes for our students,” said Boone, noting how that extra level of support has earned the school a pergogdsuce mcdheaeaietrssye CARES Program volunteers load up more than 300 cars during a recent food distribution on the Oceanside Campus. 6

gold-level certification from Leah’s Pantry, a statewide TASTY organization promoting innovative nutrition programs. TIP! “We’re also communicating regularly with each student to learn how their needs are evolving and identifying what more For that extra special we can do to help.” care, recipes were In addition to the drive-thru food distribution, the college handed out each week provides grocery gift cards, transportation vouchers, and other during the food drive support to meet the basic needs of each student. that correlated with the produce being As the pandemic passes its one-year mark, MiraCosta is distributed. continuing its drive-thru model at the Oceanside Campus and expanding monthly efforts to a second location, while also exploring pop-up food distributions to ensure that students near the San Elijo Campus and other harder-to-reach communities have the same access. n BANANA SUSHI Ingredients Ripe bananas Flour tortilla Raisins Walnuts Cinnamon Peanut butter Directions Spread a layer of peanut butter on a tortilla. Sprinkle cinnamon to taste over the peanut butter. Top with generous amount of raisins and walnuts. Place one peeled banana in the middle of the tortilla. Roll the tortilla well and cut into pieces. Voila! Banana sushi for a snack. 7

eye on the ball BD IUGMS PP IBKL EOSCE k Finding Value in the High School-to-Community College Pathway “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.” Christina Bunmann, now a first-year student at MiraCosta College, was approaching her senior year at San Dieguito Academy High School and debating what to do next. She knew she wanted to pursue higher education and, although many of her peers were committing to four-year universities, Bunmann was considering another route. “Cost and flexibility were important factors when I was making my decision,” Bunmann explained. “Some students know exactly what school they want to attend and what subject they want to major in but not every teenager is like that in high school.” Bunmann knew that her first two years of coursework would largely focus on introductory subjects, which meant community college would afford her the opportunity to find out what career paths she likes at only a fraction of the tuition cost. Then, after a couple of years, she could transfer to a four-year university that has a degree program that matches her goals. So with that, her decision was made. Bunmann chose to start her college track at MiraCosta College and began classes in the summer of 2020. A standout athlete in high school, Bunmann also joined the MiraCosta volleyball team and has been making the most out of her college experience, albeit mostly in remote settings due to COVID-19. And while the pandemic created new challenges that she could never have predicted when first choosing MiraCosta College, it also solidified her decision. When asked about her college experience so far, Bunmann explained, “I’m taking classes online like my peers and saving so much money in the process. Plus, the support at MiraCosta has been amazing. The teachers understand our challenges and have tailored our coursework and project deadlines to meet those needs. On top of that, my coaches and administrators have helped me get all the financial aid I’m eligible for through the COVID-19 Relief grant, California Promise grant, and book voucher program at MiraCosta College.” Thanks to the past year, Bunmann’s drive to achieve her academic and volleyball goals at MiraCosta and beyond has never been higher. Bunmann is currently a business major with plans to transfer to UC San Diego or another university that has a real estate program so she can pursue a career in urban planning and environmental development. n 8



PAY New Work Study Program Strengthens Career Pathways for Students DAY

Since 1964, the Federal Work Study program The paid has enabled low-income students to work their internship way through college. While community college allowed is significantly more affordable than a four-year me to university, research shows that the financial aid expand available for community college students can be my skill less, and the Federal Work Study program helps sets that I offset the college-related costs, such as books, can now housing, and other living expenses. But the half- use later century old program also comes with sacrifices on in my as many community college students cannot career. afford to not work. As more and more employers in today’s modern economy require real-world 11 experience from their job candidates, thanks to a partnership with the U.S. Department of Education, MiraCosta College is reimagining the Federal Work Study model to ensure students not only earn while they learn, but get hands-on experience in the field they are studying. Historically, when it comes to income and work experience, most students have had to choose between an unpaid, off-campus internship or a paid, on-campus work study job. While both offer unique benefits, the challenge with this model is that neither option provides the two most important things that community college students require—income and career- specific experience. Within this new pilot program, MiraCosta College students enrolled in Federal Work Study can now apply for paid off-campus internships, as long as the job is related to their academic program. The program, which is already proving to be a massive success, is aimed at increasing partnerships between community colleges and local industries, boosting student success rates, reducing student debt, and increasing post- graduation employment options. Robert Bennett, a future landscape architect, was one of the first students to participate in the pilot program this past fall. After he applied for Federal Work Study, the MiraCosta College Career Center staff approached Bennett about this new opportunity. Knowing that Bennett was interested in horticulture, they helped place him in a paid internship at Coastal Roots Farm, a nonprofit community farm focused on sustainable agriculture and food justice. Each week, Bennett spent 12-15 hours on site learning the ins and outs of sustainable farming and

My internship experience showed me that I will be ready for any challenge. also offering his expertise to his fellow “Even though the circumstances weren’t ideal, interns and staff. the timing was,” said Cayne. “I was approaching my final year at MiraCosta College and I knew “The best part about the Federal Work it would be smart to find something that aligned Study program was that my boss at Coastal with my computer science career goals.” Roots truly wanted me to succeed on the job as well as in the classroom,” shared Bennett. Working with the MiraCosta staff, Cayne “I was able to build my hours around my applied for a web development position with schoolwork and the paid internship allowed ProdigiKids, a Del Mar based business that me to expand my skill sets that I can now use designs products to support children in their later on in my career.” growth. And thanks in large part to his strong grades, he was immediately accepted. As a recovering addict and formerly- The role turned out to be the perfect fit, at the incarcerated student, the new MiraCosta perfect time. The internship allowed College program also provided Bennett was Cayne to take on a new coding provided with an added opportunity—to challenge in a corporate setting where demonstrate his reliability and leadership to he could prove himself without fear of future employers. making mistakes. Bennett recalled, “Four years ago I was As Cayne explained, “I know that sitting in a jail cell and knew I needed to turn when I start a full-time job, I may be things around. Now, thanks to my family asked to tackle a new project or a new and community, I’m four-years clean and technology I’m not familiar with. My working toward my dream career, thanks internship experience showed me that I to the opportunities afforded to me at will be ready for any challenge that’s put in MiraCosta College.” front of me.” Kyle Cayne is another success story in the Thanks to the initial success, MiraCosta first year of the enhanced Federal Work Study College is currently building more partnerships program. with local businesses and plans to expand the pilot program in 2021 to strengthen career When the pandemic hit, Cayne lost his pathways for more students like Bennett and job and was searching for other avenues to Cayne in the future. n find income. He knew he was eligible for work study but had not utilized the opportunity in previous years at MiraCosta College. 12

13

the Cycle Ten years ago, Ashley Gerdo finally had enough. She was 25 years old at the time and at the darkest point in her disease of addiction. Still facing the trauma of a physically and mentally abusive childhood, Gerdo had become addicted to drugs but knew she didn’t want to go down the path that both her parents did. “I was broken and desperate,” Gerdo recalled. “I felt inadequate.” That’s when she decided to ask for help and checked herself into a rehab program. Despite having all the odds stacked against her, Gerdo knew she didn’t want to be defined by her past. Instead, she opted for hope and resilience over despair. Fast forward more than a decade, and thanks in large part to scholarships provided by partners such as Brother Benno's, Gerdo is now nine years clean, on her way to earning her associate degree in sociology from MiraCosta College, mother to three wonderful children and wife to a loving husband. Today, Gerdo shares her story of resilience in hopes that she can serve as a beacon of light for those who might be struggling just like she was. As the daughter of teenage parents, who were addicted to drugs themselves and went to jail when she was two, Gerdo spent most of her life bouncing between abusive homes and the foster system. Her childhood was marred with hardship and trauma, and she never had a role model to show her the way. “I'm always asking myself, what could have saved me when I was younger?” Gerdo explained. “That’s a big reason why I want to get my master’s degree in counseling and become a counselor at MiraCosta College. 14

I’m committed to breaking the cycle for my children and also helping other young people who might need support like I did.” In addition to the supportive relationships she has built in her Narcotics Anonymous group, Gerdeo credits much of her success to her mentors at MiraCosta College, the peer support provided through RAFFY (Resources & Assistance for Former Foster Youth), and the scholarships that allow her to focus on her studies, especially amid the ongoing pandemic. Like many families across San Diego County, Gerdo and her husband were forced to make some hard decisions at the onset of the pandemic. The couple had just found out that she was pregnant with their third child when the stay-at-home order was announced and, soon after, Gerdo's husband was laid off from his job. Without the scholarships from Brother Benno's and other partners, Gerdo may not have been able to continue her classes. “Scholarships can really make or break a person’s ability to pursue their educational dreams and they have been a lifeline for our family during COVID-19,” highlighted Gerdo. Now, more than ever, scholarships are serving as a critical bridge for MiraCosta students who are on the verge of completing their degrees. n “[Scholarships] have been a lifeline for our family during COVID-19.”

newandem MiraCosta College Launches First Online Social Work Program in California 16

merging In an ever-increasing online world, MiraCosta College continues to innovate and provide students with more opportunities to excel in new and emerging careers. Last fall, MiraCosta made history by becoming the first community college in California to offer an associate degree for transfer in social work and human services that is completely online. The Online Social Work and Human Services Program, which is made possible thanks to a grant from the California Virtual Campus Online Education Initiative, provides students with the tools they need to become social workers in an industry currently experiencing an economic boom. According to the California Employment Development Department, the number of child, family, and school social workers is expected to grow faster than the average growth rate for all occupations and open positions are expected to increase by 12.9 percent, or 4,000 jobs, between 2016 and 2026. In San Diego County, the number of social worker jobs is expected to increase by 12.2 percent, or 300 jobs between 2016 and 2026. With social workers earning an average yearly salary of $57,000, graduates of the MiraCosta program will be 17

I plan to use what I learn from my social work and human services classes to be a better police officer and member of this community. 18

well positioned, whether they are hoping to pursue a new career or expand their expertise to use in their existing field. MiraCosta Police Officer Carlos Carrizosa is a student in the inaugural cohort. After only a few minutes of getting to know Carrizosa, it’s easy to understand why he decided to apply to MiraCosta College’s new Online Social Work and Human Services Program. Carrizosa is an individual with a big smile who embodies the qualities of community, kindness, and compassion. As a MiraCosta police officer, Carrizosa makes it a point to walk the campus at least once a day, saying hello to the students and faculty he runs into, building a sense of community and connection with everyone he meets. For him, those interactions make all the difference. “By being accessible, I have the chance to listen and help,” explained Carrizosa when discussing the similarities between his job and what he’s learning through the program. “Sometimes, students don’t know what resources we have available at MiraCosta. For instance, not every student knows we have a food pantry.” When asked why he decided to be one of the first to enroll in the Online Social Work and Human Services Program, he shared, “I think it’s important to keep actively learning. For me personally, I plan to use what I learn from my social work and human services classes in my job, which will help me be a better police officer and member of this community.” Carrizosa is one of dozens of students who are taking Introduction to Social Work and Human Services, Fieldwork for Social Work and Services, and a mix of other sociology and psychology courses that have been specifically designed to prepare students for an entry-level career with the San Diego County Department of Social Services. And because the new program provides various zero-cost textbooks and open educational resources, students pay a fraction of what they would be paying on textbooks and class materials elsewhere. While still in its infancy, the Online Social Work and Human Services Program is the latest example of how MiraCosta College is committed to improving the quality of life for students like Carrizosa, as well as the community as a whole. n 19

THE DIGITAL DIVIDE Swift Action Bridges Access for MiraCosta Students For students like Ismael Ramos, a a three-week fundraising campaign to free laptop is more than a tool in the underwrite emergency resources for classroom—it’s a lifeline. students. Ramos, the son of migrant Thanks to the generosity of local parents from Mexico, is currently corporations, such as Gilead Sciences, a MiraCosta College student who Inc., Kite Pharma, Millipore Sigma, is only a few classes away from Pride Resource Partners, LLC., completing his associates degree in psychology and and Computers 2 Kids, the school was able to deliver transferring to a four-year university. But when the emergency financial assistance and 350 computers to pandemic hit, that trajectory was at risk because of the students in need within the first month of the pandemic. longstanding digital divide that exists within higher Ramos was one of the first to receive a free laptop in the education. Like so many of his peers, Ramos lacked early stages of the pandemic and, since then, MiraCosta the resources that were all of a sudden required for has supported hundreds more with critical resources that distance learning. bridge the digital divide and allow students to focus on their studies. “When we were told that all classes would move “Since the COVID-19 outbreak became a reality, online, I wasn’t sure how that would work,” recalled our students, some of our most vulnerable members Ramos. “I didn’t have a laptop at the time and had no in our community, found themselves without food, way to do my homework or attend classes.” childcare, funding, and technology to pursue their studies,” explained MiraCosta Superintendent/President Fortunately, MiraCosta leaders sprang into action. Dr. Sunita Cooke. “Through no fault of their own, these Just days after the stay-at-home order was announced in California, the MiraCosta College Foundation launched

bright, dedicated students found themselves in immediate explained, “I want to positively impact individuals with need of our help.” broken histories, and assist them to see a more optimistic perspective of life. This MiraCosta College degree is the Every year, an average of 4,900 MiraCosta College first step toward doing that.” n students receive federal Pell Grants, which are reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional financial need. If that Ramos plans to pursue his Ph.D. wasn’t challenging enough, this past year even more students and become a clinical psychologist. found themselves out of work, struggling to pay their rent, and without the technology to continue their education. “Everybody is hurting during these unprecedented times, but for students who were already struggling, this literally can mean the difference between dropping out of school or getting critical support that will help keep them in college,” said Michael Dear, MiraCosta College’s Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships. “This is an investment in our future.” Thanks to numerous donors and corporate funders, the digital divide is one less concern for MiraCosta students like Ismael Ramos, who are on the verge of completing their coursework. “This laptop has made all the difference in the world,” shared Ramos. “Ever since I was young, my parents instilled in me the value of hard work and even during these difficult times, I continue to persist to accomplish my goals.” As Ramos continues to complete his courses online amid the pandemic, he has plans to pursue his Ph.D. and ultimately become a licensed clinical psychologist. As he

A SIMPLE PLAN Provides PEACE JAN GONZALES CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY Janice Gonzales, a long time supporter of MiraCosta College, is receiving the benefits of a charitable gift annuity. Gonzales, a dedicated educator, has been positively influencing the lives of students for generations. A high school teacher for more than twenty years, Gonzales is committed to advancing access to higher education. Join Gonzales in giving back to MiraCosta College students and their success with one of the gift options available to you. Plan your future to honor your There is no better time to think about your future, and, past. Fortunately, it is fairly easy as you do, reflect on all you have done with your life. and overwhelmingly rewarding. If you do not have a will or estate plan, now With even a simple plan, you can is the time to create or update yours. When protect your family and leave a legacy that reflects your life’s work. you do, you will find ways to: Call or email us. We have tools and Leave more for Create income for Ensure you leave ideas to help you, and it is easier your family and you, your spouse the legacy you and more rewarding than you the causes you and your family. want. might think. support. Interested in contributing to MiraCosta College? Contat Tori Fishinger at [email protected] 19AB60 This information is not intended as tax, legal or financial The names and images shown here are representative of typical donors and may or may not be advice. Gift results may vary. Consult your personal actual donors to the organization. Under federal rules your benefits may be different from this financial advisor for information specific to your situation. example. Please contact us for your specific benefits. Copyright © 2020 Crescendo Interactive, Inc. Used by permission.

A Message from MiraCosta College Foundation Board President Alex Babiarz Dear friends and supporters, Community partners and donors like you have impacted the lives of many students as seen in these stories. Thank you for your continued support, which provides opportunities such as internships, and vital resources like scholarships, laptops, hotspots, and more. Your support changes everything, for MiraCosta students, the college, and the community. We look forward to furthering our partnerships as we continue working together through this upcoming year to provide additional support and vital resources to our students striving for academic excellence. Continue to be the reason our students believe—believe in themselves, their endeavors, and goals. Picture this... After completing her bachelor’s degree in sociology at You can also find her on the other side of the camera James Cook University, Christina Sanchez headed back as a much photographed and videoed Catrina, the iconic to the States, to California, where she began interning for skeleton lady from Dia de Los Muertos, the Mexican Interscope Records. “I’d always loved music. It was a dream of mine, to work holiday that celebrates the dead. in the music industry.” Photographs of Sanchez Sanchez followed her passion as a Catrina reveal a work of for photography by enrolling at art—she almost looks unreal, MiraCosta College. “I was a total transcendent. “The first time I newbie then, I just wanted to learn wore one of my more intricate how to work a camera, to learn as costumes, a video of me was much as I could about photography.” posted on YouTube that got over two million views.” Now As she developed her photography opportunities are knocking on skills, Sanchez became more the door for Sanchez— her face connected in the music world, hanging graces Cerveceria Mundial’s out with bands and photographing Flor de Muerto beer, she’s been concerts. Jim Alvarez, from PNN invited to appear in a music Radio on KX-FM Rock, approached video, and she’s participating in her about working for the show. “He an event for a Catrina movie. said they needed someone to shoot and write articles. So I got started. Sanchez says her experience Some weeks I would shoot six nights at MiraCosta played a big role a week. Eventually, when I found in her success as an artist. “I myself backstage at the Rolling Stones concert as their only know people who paid $80,000 photographer, it dawned on me: I’d made it.” to study photography, who aren’t doing anything with photography now at all. Prestigious schools don’t matter. Now, as the mom of a busy toddler, shooting six nights You have to be true to yourself, authentic, and you have to a week is not the norm, but Sanchez still takes her mom hat be willing to get out there.\" off and hits the shows with her camera regularly. 23

1 Barnard Drive Oceanside, CA 92056 MRHOiaalvillsefieoradnCeoiaaroMgasCsCteCiatroaaooMsClCsCltieatoroaaoglsCllCeeClteaogoMoglesClleeltieraMogaMgleCClieeriaroMogaMCsleCliteroiaaroMgasCsCteCiatroaaooMsClCsCltieatoroaaoglsCllCeeClteaogoMoglesClleeltieraMogamMglieCClireeriaaroMogcaMCosleClisteroitaaroMagas.CsCeteCiatdroaaouoMsClCsCltieantoroaaoglsCllfCeeCltoeaoguoMognlesCldleeltiaeraMogtaMigloeCClieenriar.oMogamMCslieClirteroiaaaroMgcasCosCteCisatrotaaooaMsC.lCseCltieatdoroaaouglsCllCeeClteaogoMoglesClleeltieraMogaMgleCClieeriaroMogaMCsleCliteroiaaroMgasCsCteCiatroaaooMsClCsCltieatoroaaoglsCllCeeClteaogoMoglesClleeltieraMogaMgleCClieeriaroMogaMCsleCliteroiaaroMgas What: An initiative to secure sufficient donations Support: One emergency kit to underwrite providing 1,000 Student Emergency $500 Two emergency kits Response Kits to support students in immediate $1,000 need because of the coronavirus. $1,500 Three emergency kits $2,000 Four emergency kits Cost: Each Student Emergency Response Kit $2,500 Five emergency kits Or any amount you can contribute costs $500. Two Ways to Give: The Kit: Kits are a customized combination 1 Online Donation: foundation.miracosta.edu of emergency aid for food, shelter, and online 2 Check Payable to: learning support, as determined on a student- by-student basis by the college’s CARE MiraCosta College Foundation and write assessment process. “Student Emergency” on the memo line Mail to: Why: COVID-19 has created many extreme MiraCosta College Foundation, MS 7 1 Barnard Drive and immediate hardships. MiraCosta’s students Oceanside, CA 92056 are some of the hardest hit and their needs are likely to last for some time to come.