Please picture with me "Tina," a Dutchess Community College student working on a degree in business. She could be a neighbor, a close relative, or even your own child and maybe the first in her family to attend college. Tina is ambitious and works hard. To afford her education and living expenses, she waits tables at a local restaurant.

Then, the COVID-19 outbreak descends on her. Tina's restaurant must close. There's no paid time off or guarantee of future employment. Additionally, she will now incur added costs to learn remotely and continue her studies from the safety of her apartment. How will she afford to continue her education, pay her bills and achieve her goal of a better future?

Tina could be any of our students - or she could have it even tougher, with a family to support. Our students, some of the most financially vulnerable in our region, face new challenges beyond their control. These events could crush their dreams and derail their futures. The next few months could change the lives of many DCC students in a way from which they may not be able to recover.

We CAN make a difference - if you will unite with us today. Will you please give a special gift to DCC CARES at a level that matches the severity of this crisis? You will be providing a lifeline to this generation of students.

With gratitude and wishes for your wellness,

Diana L. Pollard, '97, Executive Director, Dutchess Community College Foundation