GRESHAM, Ore. – The Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) Foundation is raising funds to support students whose lives have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over the last year, MHCC has shifted most of its academic programs and support services online and many students continue to struggle. Last spring, the #RealCollege During the Pandemic Survey of almost 500 MHCC students found that:

• 42% of students were food insecure
• 35%$ were housing insecure
• 12% were homeless due to the pandemic
• 21% did not have a functional laptop or reliable internet at home
• 47% could no longer concentrate on their education
• 48% were experiencing at least moderate anxiety
• 38% said they considered withdrawing from all classes because they were moved to an online format

“We know that these statistics offer just a snapshot of the challenges that many of our students face every day. That is why we are dedicating our Foundation’s annual push for donations to supporting their basic needs so they can continue to work toward their educational goals,” said MHCC President Lisa Skari.

In conjunction with the shift to remote learning, MHCC launched a Student Support Services Request Form aimed at connecting students with the resources they need through the college. The requests received through the form provide insight into some of the struggles students currently face.

“I lost my home with the passing of my mother due to COVID1-19. I have been on the streets for months and can’t keep up with my classes. I need as much help and advice as possible.” – Anonymous MHCC Student

What We Can Do to Help

To provide resources for these students, the MHCC Foundation is asking for your help. Your donations will go far in supporting our students’ success by providing assistance in paying bills, helping with rent, providing loaner laptops for online classes and more.

The first $100,000 donated to this campaign will be matched by the MHCC Foundation. Go to mhcc.edu/Ways-To-Give to donate now.