Testimonials

The following is a short sample of the letters received by HOST from students struggling with food and housing while attending college. All these students received help from HOST.

Homeless need help

“Hi my name is SZ, a college student and homeless. I just received an Emergency Housing Scholarship from HOST… for the first time in my life I cried tears of joy, not because of the money but because of the compassion you showed me… Thank you so much, I will always remember this…”

SZ, MiraCosta College

Living in a Van

“…I am currently enrolled in classes at Mesa College and following a path to transfer to San Diego State University... I am thankful that, I am a little more comfortable in my van than some others (homeless students), but, I have been struggling.”

TD, MESA College

Homeless College Student

“…I honestly can’t thank HOST enough for everything they have done for me. Whether it was the free food that you gave me or the cash scholarship that helped me make ends meet, your help came at very low points in my life and were truly life savers.  I appreciate you so much…”

MC, Junior at USD

Emergency Housing Scholarship Applicant Letter

“… I am afraid to return home for the summer because my mom has been in a abusive relationship with a man she is scared to leave because of his gang affiliated reputation. I want to be able to continue my education and help myself become better without being in a toxic environment or being worried about my safety... I am not able to afford the summer housing prices because it is not included into my financial aid…”  

Seante-Brianna, San Diego college student

Graduate Student Struggles During the Summer

“…I am a graduate student in the last year of my program. I have a position as a graduate assistant; however, I was unable to get approval to work during the summer.  I've applied for other positions, but so far, haven't been able to get a job to earn money while I return to work and class in September. I have no financial aid at this point and need money to complete my rent for August, please help… PS. Thanks for keeping the food pantry open during the summer!”

Meredith

Real Life Struggles of a Junior Wanting to Take Summer Classes

“…I have lived with my grandparents since birth. My mother left when I was three years old, and my father has been incarcerated most of my life. My grandma, Ada, is a survivor of stage IV cancer and it is thanks to her that I am a Junior at the UNC… I am now trying to take summer classes, but I need help to complete my rent, because my financial aid is insufficient.  My grandmother (from all people!) found HOST’s Facebook page last night and suggested I applied for an emergency cash scholarship which I desperately need…”

Da’Shawn, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Meet Louis, PhD Student - and Homeless