Catholic Charities, whose mission is to fight poverty and its consequences, is proud to partner with Operation New Hope in launching a charter school campus. The campus will be an expansion of programs through Catholic Charities’ Hope in the City Family Resource Center, located at Focus 92411, 1859 Western Avenue, San Bernardino, CA. The first trimester began July 18.
The charter school offers 16–25 year olds an opportunity to earn a high school diploma from a WASC accredited school. The program is able to offer students individualized instruction and a customized educational plan so they can graduate and receive their diploma. In order to ensure success, Catholic Charities caseworkers will provide supportive services to help the student address any threats or challenges to completing their goals. Catholic Charities programs such as food distribution, utility assistance, rental assistance, benefits enrollment, young mother mentorship, tutoring, and more are a vital component to ensuring students have the support needed to complete their education.
“This is a great partnership,” said Catholic Charities Director of Family and Community Services Beverly Earl. “One of the most important aspects to halting a cycle of poverty is education, especially for our youth.
“However, it’s hard to study when you are hungry, homeless, don’t have clean school clothes, or have the utilities shut off. The charter school gives kids a chance to earn their diploma through a customized education plan. Catholic Charities has the honor of ensuring they are not pulled off course by distractions they face in their everyday lives.”
The program plans to serve 60 students the first year. Beyond academics, the school teaches life skills, communication tools, and leadership development. For more information on how to enroll, call the Catholic Charities San Bernardino Office at (909) 880-3625.