For students heading to college for the first time or returning after a summer away, you have reached crunch time. Time is running out to stock up on last-minute supplies and items necessary for the upcoming school year. With help from Elkhart-based nonprofit, C.A.R.E University, students attending college away from home are receiving help as they prepare for this new chapter.

At its July college kickoff event, students graduating from high school in Elkhart, or a surrounding county, were given the chance to grab basic items they can use at their post-secondary institution. These included toiletries, bedding, kitchen items, hygiene products and more. 

Additionally, in connection with Indiana Michigan Power’s I&M Foundation, 64 students received a new laptop at this event as part of the Technology Fund for C.A.R.E University students. To qualify for the Technology Fund, students must meet the following criteria:

• Must be an incoming college freshman or first-year student at post-secondary institution
• Maintained a 3.5 GPA during final year of high school
• Completed ten hours of community service or volunteer hours during final year of high school

“Attending college away from home is a big change for students and their families, so it is our hope that providing resources, such as technology, can help pave the way for success now and into the future,” said Mona Livingston, I&M Customer Service Manager.

C.A.R.E University strives to encourage and empower students to reach their educational goals by providing support and encouragement through mentorship, resources and opportunities. I&M is proud to support education in our community through initiatives and educational resources – like the Technology Fund.   

Read more about how we are partnering and supporting the communities we serve by visiting the community section on our website.