BOISE, Idaho — Avenues for Hope campaign kicked off on December 9 to help raise money and awareness for about 100 Idaho nonprofits focused on helping people overcome homelessness and find affordable housing.
Over 13 years, Avenues for Hope has raised $15.5 million dollars for about 130 Idaho nonprofits.
The Boise Public Schools Foundation is just one of those nonprofits.
They work to build the success of Boise School District students by working with teachers and school staff to expand student learning experiences and offer additional resources to students and their families.
Jennifer Henderson is the Executive Director of the Boise Public Schools Foundation.
"We work with a lot of different programs, so everything from academics to music to athletics to programs that really help students with basic needs and things to help them level the playing field for all kids," said Henderson.
With increasing housing costs, it has become more difficult for families to afford rent or mortgages.
According to Henderson, the Boise School District sees about 800 to 850 students experiencing homelessness each year.
That need is why Idaho Housing and Finance created the Home Partnership Foundation and Avenues for Hope to raise awareness and money for Gem State nonprofits.
Idaho Housing and Finance's Vice President of Community Housing, Brady Ellis said donors get to choose where their contributions go.
“All of these dollars stay here in Idaho. They all go to local nonprofits that are providing an extreme need for Idahoans. 100% of the dollars, both from our sponsors and from the donors, will go to these nonprofits providing services directly to community members," Ellis said.
The Avenues for Hope online campaign is live right now and ends on December 31st.
You can donate to the organization of your choice by checking out the Avenues For Hope webpage.
If you would like to learn more about the Home Partnership Foundation check out this link.