240K grant from Whitehorse Foundation expands family support across Edmonds schools

The Whitehorse Foundation awarded a $240,000 grant to the Foundation for Edmonds School District to enhance its Whole Families, Whole Communities program. The funding will sustain 2. 5 family resource advocate positions in elementary schools and launch a pilot afterschool program at Alderwood Middle School. The initiative aims to support families dealing with housing instability and food insecurity, having already assisted over 1,100 families since August 2024. Deborah Brandi, executive director of the foundation, noted the program's significance in providing vital resources to families.

The afterschool pilot will offer tutoring, mentoring, and leadership development, along with support for parents through evening programs. The Whitehorse Foundation has funded this program for seven years, demonstrating a long-term commitment to community support. This investment is expected to create lasting change for families and students facing poverty. The coordinated response involves collaboration among community partners and school staff, ensuring comprehensive assistance.