Equity Programs

Family Economic Security Program

Since 2015, the Family Economic Security Program (FESP) has been an innovative partnership between Housatonic Community College, the HCC Foundation and Fairfield County’s Community Foundation. Adapted from a national model developed by The Annie E. Casey Foundation, FESP addresses barriers that marginalized students face to college persistence and completion through intensive and comprehensive wrap-around services and supports. It has evolved across three campuses in CT.

Over 400 students participated in FESP at HCC since 2015; average student retention rate was 30% higher than general population. Beginning in the Fall 2021, FESP narrowed its focus on supporting low-income, female students with children who are also working one or more jobs. Its “2Gen” approach will encourage 50 students annually and their families to become financially secure and independent, achieve their educational goals, and enter wage sustaining careers.

Equity Project

Launched as a one-year pilot initiative in January 2021, the Equity Project increases access to opportunities and economic mobility by intentionally and strategically supporting under-resourced and under-represented students including first generation college student, undocumented, LGBT+ and students of color.

The first cohort of 20 students (10 male/ 10 female) received financial supports targeted at access and retention, combined with campus engagement and learning opportunities to increase their sense of community, belonging and ability to succeed at HCC and beyond. Each student was paired with an achievement coach who are leaders in the college’s Men and Women Centers.

In 2022, the Equity Project doubled the number of students served, building on the pilot’s year of learning and achievements, and impacting more students.

Contact us for more information:

Kristy Jelenik

Executive Director


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203.332.5078

The Housatonic Community College Foundation

The HCC Foundation expands access to quality, affordable higher education and works closely with the college to enhance the learning experience and workforce development education and training of students.  As a 501 (c)3 tax exempt organization, its mission is to solicit, secure and manage contributions from the private sector through philanthropic individuals, corporations and foundations for the benefit of Housatonic Community College. 

Donate

The HCC Foundation works to ensure every student knows the support and generosity of the community—a community that believes in them and is committed to equipping them with resources to attain their educational goals.

Donate here today

Contact the HCC Foundation

Location: 900 Lafayette Blvd, Bridgeport
Phone: 203.332.5078
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