Give the Gift of Education to Children in Poverty

On July 13th The Education Committee of CAA had its Beca (Scholarship) Awards Ceremony in the meeting room of Coopenae, San Ramon, Costa Rica.    Nineteen students were given vouchers which are  redeemable in various stores in San Ramon such as El Mercadito and Tienda Jonathan where they can buy school supplies, uniforms and shoes for the school year.  These vouchers are funded by donations from CAA members and other supporters who contribute to help some of the approximately 23% of Costa Rican children living in poverty.  Many struggling, disadvantaged families would not be able to keep their children in school without this help.  This volunteer-run program annually supports 24 - 30 area high school students as well as providing a stipend  for a university Tico social worker who mentors and assists  these Beca students.   Our program also provides eye exams/glasses, food assistance, mental health counseling, computers and tutoring  for these financially disadvantaged, but motivated high school students.  Satisfactory grades and attendance are required for current year and multi-year eligibility.  Completing high school opens doors for future vocational and university studies, and provides a path out of poverty.  We expect to have 36 high school graduates (some of these students have been in the program since 5th or 6th grade), at least 10 university entries and 3 bachelor’s degrees earned through the end of 2024.   CAA is very proud of our students’ achievements and through your generous donations, we hope to continue supporting this very worthwhile, educational  program.