Verdant grant to fund Whole Families, Whole Communities pilot project serving middle schoolers and their families

The Foundation for Edmonds School District has secured a $25,000 grant from Verdant Health Commission to implement the Whole Families, Whole Community (WFWC) program at Alderwood Middle School through December 2025. This initiative aims to provide coordinated mental health resources, tutoring, and family services to enhance student stability and wellbeing. Assistant Superintendent Greg Schwab highlighted the importance of middle school as a critical period for early intervention. The program plans to serve 25-30 students weekly during its pilot phase, scaling up to 40-50 students by fall. Notable community partners include the Latino Education Training Institute and Alderwood Boys & Girls Club, which will help deliver culturally responsive programming.

The program's vision is to expand to all middle schools in the district, reaching 300-400 students weekly over three years. Executive Director Deborah Brandi expressed gratitude for the support from Verdant Health Commission, noting that thriving families lead to thriving students. This collaborative effort aligns with Verdant’s mission to strengthen child and adolescent mental health services.