ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — For some college students, missing a meal can be just as much of a barrier to graduation as paying tuition.

Esther Funds Foundation, a Christian nonprofit working to prevent college dropouts, has launched its REACH program- a free care package service designed to support students facing financial and personal barriers.

The group focuses on first-generation, low-income, and minority students, including those at HBCUs and predominantly white schools.

“Students let us know sometimes the cafe hours do not align with their class schedules, so often they are going hungry or missing out on nutritional things,” said Shayna Vincent, Founder and Executive Director of Esther Funds Foundation.

Addressing basic needs

The REACH program provides hygiene kits, emergency gift cards, food, and laundry detergent.

Vincent said money remains a major reason students leave school. Some are blindsided by unexpected balances ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.

“They save up a certain amount to attend college, but not the finances for when an unexpected bill comes,” Vincent said.

Esther Funds has grown to more than 18 chapters nationwide, including efforts at Albany State, Savannah State, and Clark Atlanta. The organization also offers scholarships when funding allows, plus an online scholarship database and mentoring support.

For Vincent, the mission is personal. She grew up with ADHD and had a 1.7 GPA in high school when a counselor suggested she drop out.

“My guidance counselor actually recommended that I drop out of high school and pick up a trade. I started Esther Funds to increase graduation rates — to let students know you can do this,” Vincent said.

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