Dear Friends,
The COVID-19 crisis has impacted each of us – but it has not done so equally.
New York’s 15th Congressional District, where Hostos Community College is located, offers the worst economic prospects in the U.S. for residents ages 18 to 34 years old, according to a new index compiled by Bloomberg. This inequity is further compounded by the fact that the Bronx has the City’s highest rates of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization and deaths.
Our students live in the communities most directly impacted by this crisis. A CUNY survey conducted in mid-April indicates that 38% of students have been laid off due to COVID-19 and that their greatest increased needs are funds for general expenses (57%) and food (52%). In the months ahead, these percentages will undoubtedly increase.
I refuse to stand by idly while our dedicated students struggle to procure food and buy basic essentials for themselves and their families. I refuse to leave these students behind.
If you feel as I do, please join me in supporting the Hostos Student Emergency Relief Fund. Your gift will help our students to feed themselves and their families, keep a roof over their heads and persist through these challenging times. To further bolster the profound impact your gift will have on our students, I will match all contributions, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000.
On behalf of the Hostos Community College Foundation and the students whom it serves, thank you for supporting our students during this crisis. We are deeply grateful for your assistance and hope that you and your loved ones are safe and well. Forward, together.
Sincerely,
José A. Sánchez Kinghorn
Chairperson
Hostos Community College Foundation
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