Latino families have been disproportionately devastated by Covid-19-related sickness and job losses. To add to that pain, the number of Latino first-time college freshmen plummeted 20 percent in fall 2020 compared to fall 2019. We recognize that a college education can change the economic trajectory of our scholars and strengthen our communities. In 2020 we received more than 800 scholarship applications and awarded 30 scholars. This year we have received 500 applications, and our board will announce finalists in May. Since 2011 the Latinas First Foundation has continually increased the impact on our community, yet one constant has been certain. We have more need than we have resources.
Please help us strengthen our infrastructure to support scholarships and mentorship of our talented, hardworking Latina students by donating and by sponsoring our fundraising events. We remain hopeful that we can host our annual award luncheon/gala in the fall and promise to keep you informed on the other, safe ways to get involved and support our scholars. We thank you for your continued advocacy and wish you good health.
