In response to the recent Line Fire, the SBVC Foundation was able to secure a $10,000 grant from the Foundation for California Community Colleges to provide emergency assistance to students directly impacted by the disaster.

The Foundation identified over 1,200 SBVC students living in areas subject to mandatory evacuation orders during the fire. A targeted email was sent to these students, inviting them to apply for emergency aid. Priority was given to students who demonstrated a clear emergency need, resided in affected communities, and maintained good academic standing. Within the first 36 hours of the application opening, more than 50 students applied for assistance.

Twenty students were selected to receive $500 each. In addition to notifying recipients, the Foundation also provided resources to those not selected, including information about SBVC's student scholarships, Basic Needs program, and the Food Pantry for those with ongoing unmet needs.

Looking ahead, the Foundation anticipates awarding over $500,000 in scholarships again at the end of this academic year. This is a significant increase from six years ago when annual scholarship awards averaged less than $200,000, and the fourth year in a row that the Foundation has been able to exceed the 500k mark in scholarships and grants. The SBVC Foundation remains committed to supporting students in times of crisis and ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.

A firefighter standing in front of massive flames from the Line Fire