Bridging the gap in times of need
$2.62 million dollars given back to our community since 2000
Staff & Student Assistance Fund (SSAF)
Educator and Student Assistance
The Staff/Student Assistance Fund (SSAF) is a vital initiative aimed at providing assistance* and support to educators and students within the Carteret County Public School System. This fund serves as a safety net, offering financial aid and resources in times of need and enabling both teachers and students to thrive in their educational endeavors.
Flexible Funding & Crisis Relief
As an independent fundraising organization, we have the flexibility to fund emerging needs*, which is critical for student success.
Whether students need food, supplies, or other resources, we are equipped to lend a hand wherever necessary.
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*To request assistance, please contact school campus staff as CCPSF does not accept direct applications for aid.
Student Lunch Debt Fund
The fund to eliminate school lunch debt was established as a community-driven initiative to address a pressing issue in the Carteret County Public School system: the growing school lunch debt. This debt accrues when students are unable to pay for their meals, often leading to difficult choices for both families and schools.
The fund was created to ensure that no child goes hungry during the school day due to an inability to pay for lunch, which can negatively impact their focus, health, and overall academic performance.
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The idea behind the fund was sparked by the recognition that unpaid lunch balances were creating financial strain on schools while stigmatizing students who couldn't afford meals. This issue gained attention through Gaffer's Emerald Isle when they issued a community and social media campaigns, during SignWars 2024 which rallied local businesses and individuals to contribute to the cause.
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The fund aims to wipe out existing lunch debt, ensuring that all students start the school year without the burden of unpaid meal charges. It also helps to create awareness about the importance of ensuring all children have access to nutritious meals, regardless of their financial situation.
The Gaffer’s challenge raised over $13,000 in the first day which was enough to pay off the $2,548 in student lunch debt from the 2023/2024 school year. This fund is part of a broader effort to ensure that students in Carteret County are well-fed and ready to thrive academically.
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Newport, NC
"My family is very grateful for the help for my children. Thank you"
*In respect of privacy, CCPSF does not disclose the names of its assistance grant recipients.
Beaufort, NC
“Thank you so much for your love and kindness during this difficult time. The way the community has banded together is inspiring and I can never express how much it means to us”
Morehead City, NC
"Thank you for everything. I cannot say it enough. You have such big hearts.
Dreams to reality"