C.O.C.O.A. House, Inc.

Following the creation of “Kozi’s Kids” a little over a year and a half ago, I have been blessed with the opportunity to become an active mentor and supporter of The COCOA House (Children of Our Community Open to Achievement) here in Schenectady.  The “Kozi’s Kids” program provides opportunities for the Schenectady youth to attend Union College Hockey games and experience our college’s community. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our young fans aren't able to visit us at the rink.  Despite this, and in an effort to continue to make impactful contributions to these children’s’ lives, I have organized a GoFundMe to raise money that goes directly to the COCCA House for Christmas presents to be distributed at The COCOA House this December.  Please consider donating and helping me wish the children at The COCOA House a Merry Christmas! Thank you!

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic creates challenges for Schenectady youth, with huge ramifications on their ability to learn. That’s why we’re raising money and awareness for COCOA House, a tutoring center est. in 1996 by Union College alum in the struggling Schenectady neighborhood of Hamilton Hill.  They are always in need of additional funding and support from the Union Community.  Thank you for the support so far! 

All funds go toward buying school supplies (notebooks, pens, pencils, markers, colored pencils, folders, and binders) as well as items for food and drinks (paper plates, cups, plastic ware, and napkins) for the kids at COCOA House. This is important considering that nearly 80% of kids in the Schenectady school district subsist on free or reduced school lunches, kids lack the necessary supplies to learn online during the pandemic, and the school system faces a recent 20% cut in funding. 

The kids and volunteers at COCOA House appreciate your donation!

Sources:

https://www.nysut.org/news/nysut-united/issues/2013/november-2013/living-in-povertys-grip

https://www.wamc.org/post/schenectady-schools-face-hundreds-layoffs-under-aid-cuts

COCOA House is a free after-school, academic enrichment program offered to students from the Hamilton Hill neighborhood of Schenectady, NY. In addition to offering one-on-one tutoring, learning games and activities, and nutritious food to all attendees, college student volunteers gain the opportunity to work with the community, gaining important leadership and organizational skills as well as high levels of compassion and empathy. This experience greatly impacts both the COCOA House students and the Union College students by improving achievement at both ends and allowing these two different groups of people to establish meaningful connections with one another. The result is a change in the lives of two generations as they strive to develop and succeed.

Your donation directly benefits the COCOA House and Union College students and makes a difference in their lives!