By Scarlette Jasper
Lack of educational attainment contributes to rural poverty. I work closely with schools and community part
ners in Appalachia to promote literacy in various ways. Recently, I met a mother of four through my Christmas Boxes for Appalachia project. My Community Action partner had requested boxes for Caitlyn’s children. The caseworker had met me through a new athletic shoe distribution for children that I coordinated in the community. She reached out to me to see if she could help with a special request.
Caitlyn, an EMT, wanted to take advanced EMT training. This would increase her skills and improve the financial aspect of her job. Caitlyn had saved a portion of the $1,300 fee for the course. She was struggling to come up with the rest of the required down payment so she could attend the training. She had been turned down everywhere for assistance.
After talking with the case worker, I agreed to contribute financially towards the tuition for Caitlyn’s class. Getting to know families and walking with them as they work hard to improve their quality of life is what I strive to do. I am in contact with Caitlyn regularly, cheering her on in her studies.