A group of SVCF donors has committed $1 million in a matching challenge to raise funds for The Big Lift, the innovative literacy program for low-income kids in San Mateo County that lost its federal funding last year. The group will match donations dollar for dollar until March 31, 2018.
The Big Lift earned about half of its $33 million budget from the Social Innovation Fund, a program that was removed from the federal budget in an agreement reached by Congress in 2017. While SVCF’s $2 million fundraising goal is not enough to sustain the program long-term, the donations will allow SVCF and leaders of The Big Lift to explore additional funding options in the interim.
Seven school districts in San Mateo County are served by The Big Lift, which provides two years of free preschool, as well as programs to alleviate absenteeism, provide summer learning opportunities, and ensure that families are engaged in their children’s preschool learning.
Help preserve these crucial resources for families by donating here. All funds raised will be matched until March 31, 2018.