Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) Grant - Crafton Hills College

Publish Date: June 18, 2020

GIA Growing Inland Achievement

On April 29th, the Crafton Hills College Foundation received a $10,000 grant from Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) to provide emergency assistance funds for students. Growing Inland Achievement is a regional collective impact organization aimed at increasing postsecondary credential attainment, adding more qualified people to the workforce, and contributing to a thriving economy.

The Foundation will use this grant money to continue its efforts to provide emergency assistance grants of up to $500 per student to help students continue their education. This financial assistance will help students experiencing unforeseen financial hardships because of lost jobs or wages due to the pandemic. Specifically, these funds will provide access to technology at home and basic needs such as food, rent, and utilities.

One of the recent recipients, Cathleen D’Arpa, a student in the Emergency Medical Technician program, credited this funding with her ability to continue her education. D’Arpa, who was recently laid off due to COVID-19, said, “Receiving this help has allowed me to pay for my WiFi and phone in order to attend class via Zoom chats, take online tests and complete homework assignments.”

“This funding will allow students to focus on their studies,” said Dr. Kevin Horan, Crafton Hills College president. “We are so grateful to GIA for their donation to help our students complete their post-secondary educational goals, which will ultimately lead to a well-trained workforce and a stronger economy.”