16 Nov Removing Barriers Update November 2021
It’s really time for an update! We at the Foundation have been working hard to put your Removing Barriers contributions to work where needed most. Here’s a quick overview to bring you up to speed.
• August backpack and school supplies collection drive
We distributed 726 new backpacks and 725 supply kits to students in need at the big back-to-school event on August 30th at Pop Keeney Stadium. A HUGE shout-out to our collection hosts, including Bothell Everett Kids Dentistry – Thrashers Corner, Alexa’s Café – Downtown Bothell, Bothell Pediatric Hand Therapy, Kenmore Smiles Family Dentistry, Woodinville Fire & Rescue, Banner Bank, and multiple Starbucks locations in Bothell, Kenmore, and Woodinville. We’ll keep filling requests as they come in and as funds allow.
• CARE Teams at every school
Now that kiddos are back in classrooms, our Care Teams are connecting with students in ways we haven’t seen since before the pandemic. October 1st was the launch of our Opportunity Fund and Basic Needs Aid programs and to date, we’ve received 42 nominations for support and $9,000 in aid has been distributed.
• Needs are diverse
Families are struggling for many reasons, including extended illnesses, deaths, job losses, and tragic accidents. In some cases, students have needed to leave unsafe situations to live with grandparents or other extended family members. In others, families just need a short-term boost. As little as $100 for an appliance repair can make a crucial difference in a family’s stability.
• Looking ahead
The high level of need that we saw last year is continuing and is even up a bit more this fall. As Care Teams continue their incredible work, we’ll keep listening and responding the best we can. [Click here to see how funds were spent last year.]
If you have questions, concerns, or just want to better understand the work that’s underway, please reach out by phone at 425-408-7680 or email info@nsdfoundation.org.
Thank you for all you do to support this work. It is impossible without your contributions.
With gratitude,
Heather Erickson
Removing Barriers Manager
P.S. During Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, we’ve been highlighting some of our work on social media. Here is just one video snippet from our interview with Ana Foy. View more anytime on the Foundation’s YouTube channel.
