Students’ Lives Transformed Through Campus Essentials Donation

Thanks to the kindness of a recent donor, students at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) received a tremendous boost to their well-being and academic success. On Friday, September 12, the ELAC Foundation, Basic Needs Center, Athletic Department, and Associated Student Union (ASU) teamed up for a shopping trip to Costco. With the generous donation, they were able to stock up on food, snacks, and basic needs items that will make a real difference for our students on campus. 

The ELAC Foundation, which leads fundraising and community engagement efforts for the college, organized the effort and purchased more than $2,500 worth of basic needs supplies. This included nutritious snacks, pantry staples, hygiene products, and other essentials that help ensure students have access to the resources necessary to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. 

For many students, balancing the demands of coursework, work, and family responsibilities makes it difficult to meet even their most basic needs. Donations like those of our donors directly address this challenge, creating a stronger support system and empowering students to stay focused on their education. 

Reflecting on his gift, the donor shared, “Being born and raised in East Los Angeles, I understand the importance of giving back to the community that shaped me. I am proud to support ELAC students and help provide the essentials they need to thrive and reach their full potential.” 

Rosalba Villalobos, ELAC’s Basic Needs Coordinator, emphasized the lasting impact of the contribution: “This generous donation is more than just providing snacks and essentials; it is an investment in the well-being and success of ELAC students. Supporting their basic needs strengthens our community and empowers the next generation of leaders.” 

We are thrilled to partner with the Basic Needs Team and Athletic Department to make a tangible difference in students’ lives through this donation. Contributions like these have a huge impact on our campus community, helping students feel supported and ready to succeed academically and personally,” said Alison Fu, ELAC’s President of the Associated Student Union.  

“This donation reflects the power of community and generosity. By ensuring students have access to basic needs, we are investing in their future success and the growth of our campus community. Every nourished student is a step toward a stronger, more resilient ELAC,” said Dr. Monte E. Perez, ELAC Interim President  

The ELAC Foundation continues to champion student success through partnerships with community members, businesses, and donors who recognize that access to food, clothing, and other basic needs are vital to educational achievement. This latest effort underscores ELAC’s ongoing mission to remove barriers, promote equity, and uplift students as they pursue their academic and career goals.