LBCC’s Helping Homeless Students Fund (HHS) hosted a Halloween fundraiser on Oct. 29 in the English Lounge of Building P, to raise money to support students experiencing homelessness.
The event was organized by Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Baxter and Sunny Zia, two of the foundation’s original creators and current LBCC trustees.
With a $25 entry fee, all proceeds went toward helping students in need. Guests also had the opportunity to participate in a drawing and a silent auction while enjoying food and drinks.
HHS was established in 2015 by Baxter and Zia after discovering that someone was sleeping in the Horticultural Garden at LBCC’s Trades, Technology, and Community Learning Campus.
Upon the establishment of the foundation, unhoused student Majeedah Wesley, reached out to Zia for assistance. Wesley became the first student to receive a stipend through the foundation to help cover her immediate expenses.
“I was able to vet it out, and once I validated the veracity of what was being stated. She was the one that opened the door, and we offered her a scholarship,” Zia said.
That initial act of support marked the beginning of a larger mission ensuring students have equal opportunities to pursue their education regardless of their housing circumstances.
Rachele Ross, an HHS trustee member, believes students deserve to be cared for and treated equally. She emphasized the importance of making sure students know they are supported and have access to the resources they need.
“We want to make sure that every single student will leave campus and be able to go somewhere where they can lay their head down, take a shower and do their homework. We want to make sure they have a place to stay,” Ross said about the HHS’s goals.
The HHS Fund works alongside LBCC’s Basic Needs Program, with the Viking Vault serving as a physical and administrative entry point for students seeking assistance. While the Viking Vault connects students with essential resources, HHS provides financial support for expenses such as rental security deposits and direct living stipends to help students maintain stable housing.
As HHS continues its mission, community involvement remains an important part of supporting students experiencing homelessness. Community members can contribute by connecting with local organizations, supporting community initiatives, and attending City Hall meetings to learn about opportunities to get involved.
LBCC counselor Zakee Neblett believes supporting local initiatives, recognizing individual needs and giving back are essential to addressing homelessness.
“Everyone has a part to play in addressing homelessness. It’s about finding opportunities within your community to get involved, give back, and make a difference in whatever capacity you can,” Neblett said.
The Halloween fundraiser was another way for the community to come together and support students facing homelessness. Through events like this, the HHS Fund continues to raise money and remind students that they are not alone and that help is available when they need it.
