Caring S.H.O.S., Inc. was originally developed at Orange Coast College in January 2008 by students of the EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs & Services) Honors Club, a club created in 2001 by a counselor of the EOPS program at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, CA.  Encouraged by the founder of EOPS Honors club, the President of the Honors Club and a dedicated team of volunteer members established donation bin locations around  the campus, a membership with a local food bank, and  relationships with a well known, international non profit agency and community organizations.

  We realize that 30% of college students leave school in their first year and almost 50% never graduate.  The number one reason for this is financial.  Our idea was to collect donated clothing, food, books, kids toys, and more from more affluent students to give to the thousands of economically disadvantaged students who need an extra hand, for one month every semester in grocery bag form and a Thrift Store atmosphere;  with a hopeful goal of establishing a central location for year round donations and distribution.  This creates a connection between students and their peers.  In addition, we connect students to agencies that can assist with more specific and/or emergency needs.  Any student is welcome and no questions are asked.  In the beginning stages of development we have been able to hand out thousands of  lbs. of food, thousands of dollars in clothing, as well as many school supplies, toys, and more.  We will be continuing our plight to numerous other campuses soon.  
    How it works:  For one month each semester we collect food and more from students via collection bins around campus as well as food and clothing from community agencies. Through the week these are collected and on one day they are handed out for two hours in grocery bag form.  Any student may choose any clothing or other goods collected absolutely free.  Partnerships with on and off campus organizations allow representatives from Caring S.H.O.S., Inc. on site to speak to each student about additional programs to assist in paying for rent, utilities, food, and more for beyond the campus life.  The Caring S.H.O.S., Inc. representative becomes a mentor to a student with more pressing issues, such as homelessness or childcare as well as assisting in filling out student aid applications. The reps help with any connections made to agencies specifically designed to handle particular needs and a continued contact relationship with the student helps to follow their ongoing process. 

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email: dameionrox@yahoo.com

Caring S.H.O.S., Inc.
PO Box 112
Stanton, CA 90680
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