MiraCosta College’s Resources and Assistance for Former Foster Youth (RAFFY) Program is one of MiraCosta's seven Academic Success and Equity programs (ASE). These student-centered programs are purposefully designed to help ensure students not only meet their educational goals, but also to thrive in their college environment.
In 2001, the RAFFY program was created to assist potential college students who have aged out of the foster care system.
At MiraCosta College, RAFFY is a uniquely innovative and powerful counseling and networking program. The program serves 60 – 70 students per year, providing targeted services including specialized academic advising, mental health counseling, community referrals, emergency financial assistance, and mentoring.
Quick Facts
- 48 students actively enrolled in the MiraCosta College RAFFY program
- More than 350 food and gas gift cards were given to RAFFY students to aid in accessing vital resources for academic success
- Over 80% retention rate for those receiving full RAFFY services
- More than 3,400 children are in the foster care system in San Diego County. Most children are placed temporarily in foster care, and each year some of 300 of them leave the system.
MiraCosta College has worked to help
MiraCosta College has always offered counseling and support services for students. But while the counseling staff has been creative in establishing community partnerships directly aimed at serving students who are former foster youth, there is no specific support for them.
Now we need your support
The MiraCosta College Foundation is committed to building upon existing philanthropic relationships as we work to secure new investment partners. Our goal is to expand the pool of supporting partners, leveraging new sources of funding to expand and enhance this critical program.
Your gift can create real change in the lives of former foster youth. Your support can provide a student with assistance with college expenses or with emergency needs like housing and food, which can make all the difference to a student trying to stay in college.