Through the CARE Center, HACC has created a culture of caring that views our students holistically. HACC celebrates the diversity of its student body and affirms that our students are parents, caregivers, employees, athletes, activists and so on. In HACC’s culture of caring, we also acknowledge our students' hardships and provide numerous supportive measures. This holistic approach aims to reduce the barriers preventing students from pursuing their educational goals and invites them into rich and rewarding learning experiences.
During the 2023-24 academic year, the CARE Center soared to new heights, thanks to all the support from the HACC community, our gracious donors and the surrounding communities.
Here are some highlights and points of pride on how HACC’s students were served during the 2023-24 academic year:
Facilitated over 6,000 student interactions providing immediate assistance while connecting students with long-term HACC and community resources for sustainable success.
Served 1,920 meals during FREE Meal Thursdays. FREE Meal Thursday is an opportunity for students on the Gettysburg, Harrisburg, Lancaster and York and campuses to receive nutritious meals during the fall and spring semesters. These meals began at 11:30 a.m. and were served while supplies lasted.
Provided 3,556 free student meals to students, in partnership with The Chef’s Apprentice (the student-run restaurant on HACC’s Harrisburg Campus) and the HACC Bookstore, by allowing students to eat one free meal (valued at $9) each week. This partnership demonstrated HACC’s focus on eradicating food insecurity and our proud commitment as a designated Pennsylvania Hunger-Free Campus.
Assisted over 300 students with transportation by providing monthly bus passes or access to gas cards.
Hosted numerous events focused on financial literacy, mental health, long-term community resources and career readiness.
Referred over 100 students to mental health services.
The CARE Center has helped create a #HACChasYourBack culture, which is evident as they support students. With your continued support, the CARE Center looks forward to continuing this work during the 2024-25 academic year to further impact the lives of HACC’s students.