The F.O.O. Fund

As a first-generation college student, I faced significant financial barriers that led to interruptions in my education. Scholarships were vital, enabling me to achieve my dream of becoming a nurse, writer, and humanitarian. Without this support, I would not be in the position to empower others today. During my undergraduate years, I mentored underrepresented children with learning disabilities, which revealed the devastating impact of educational inequities on opportunities and well-being. Later, as a nursing student on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, I witnessed how systemic disparities, including language barriers, worsened health outcomes for marginalized populations. These experiences solidified my commitment to addressing inequities in both education and healthcare. The turning point came during my visit to Jordan’s Zaatari refugee camp with the U.S. Department of State. There, I learned that fewer than 1% of the camp’s 80,000 residents—60% of whom are children—had access to higher education. This stark reality emphasized that educational inequities are not solely domestic concerns but a global crisis with far-reaching health and social consequences. Inspired by this realization, I founded the F.O.O. Project, an online platform connecting marginalized adults aged 18-30 to fully funded educational opportunities. To date, we have helped students secure over $10,000 in scholarships. Mission: The F.O.O. Project Scholarship Fund empowers undergraduate students facing financial hardships to achieve their educational aspirations. The fund focuses on low-income students who identify as BIPOC, first-generation college students, Pell Grant recipients, international visa holders, and individuals who have experienced homelessness within the past year. By addressing systemic barriers to education, this scholarship fosters equity and opportunity, transforming lives and communities to create a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.