Gavilan College’s Hollister site director raises emergency funds while creating masks
by Jan Janes on May 8, 2020Judy Rodriguez, Site Director for the Hollister campus, turned to her sewing machine when the shelter in place order was announced.
“I felt I had a little more free time,” said Rodriguez. “I wanted to use my talent of sewing to help others stay safe.”
Judy Rodriguez uses her spare time and sewing talent to create masks and raise funds.
Her sewing project took on an added dimension, as she decided to sell the masks and contribute the money to the Gavilan's student emergency fund.
“So many of our students are struggling right now,” she said. Many have lost their jobs and face the pressure of COVID-19 and sheltering in place.
“I’ve worked for Gavilan for 23 years,” said Rodriguez. “It makes me happy to work for a college that cares so much about students. We put our students first and go the extra mile.”
Available masks have both sports themes and colorful patterns.
Gavilan has disbursed almost $40,000 to students from the emergency fund, sending $100 VISA cards or $100 checks to students who applied.
After receiving aid, one student wrote,"Thank you. Blessings! I really appreciate it, nobody in my house is working because of COVID-19. It will help a lot. I was unable to pay my rent, and I am trying to negotiate the other utility bills."
Email Judy Rodriguez for information about how you can purchase a mask. Visit the COVID-19 Student Emergency Fund page to make a direct donation.