School social workers–like all staff members in a public school setting–have a unique opportunity to provide direct intervention and support to students, families, and our community. It is a privilege to ensure our students and their families are getting their emotional, mental, social, or material needs met. This unique level of support is only made possible and strengthened with help from the local community, such as through agencies and organizations like the CHS Alumni Association.
This academic year alone, we have worked to support over 80 families within the CHS community. Specifically, we have provided:
- 25 families with resources to assist with rent and/or utilities.
- 66 families with food and grocery needs
- 60 families with clothing needs
- 55 winter coats for students
Additionally, we have served over 500 meals from our food pantry since the beginning of the 2023-24 school year.
While this is vital to the well-being of students and families, it barely scratches the surface of our work to support Cleveland High School students and their families. This work includes providing a safe space for students to process their emotions and struggles when they are in a crisis, helping them formulate a plan for success in school and life, and connecting them with other mentors and leaders in the community.
We are very proud of our work, and we recognize that there are still countless ways we could support our students and community.
This year, we plan to support students by purchasing yearbooks, cap and gowns, prom tickets, and other school-related costs for students in need so they can fully participate in their high school experiences and community. Thanks to the generous donations of the CHS Alumni Association, we are able to purchase these items this year. You can continue to the InvestED Fund through by donating directly to the Cleveland STEM HS InvestEd Fund to support these efforts.
Suppose you want to donate to the bigger umbrella that can reach the school-related items mentioned previously, along with our other support programs like the Cleveland Food Pantry, Cleveland Closet, and Family Engagement space. In that case, you can donate directly to the Cleveland Alumni Association’s CHS Activity Fund, where we can receive support for specific projects and needs.
Your help and continued support are essential to the services we, as School Social Workers, can provide Cleveland Families. We never want anyone to fall through the cracks when they could only use a little support. Thank you for contributing to the success and well-being of your community.
Amy T. Hashiguchi, MSW (she/her)
School Social Worker
Cleveland STEM High School
