Molina healthcare brings holiday greetings to at risk college students

Imperial Valley College students got into the Christmas spirit today after receiving much needed gifts.

Molina Healthcare gave 100 at-risk college students a duffle bag filled with necessities for the holiday season.

Students receiving the gifts were part of the college’s Extended Opportunity Program and Services that provides assistance for at-risk students.

Local agencies play a vital role in providing the needs for their students, according to IVC officials.

For Gabrielle Urena, a low income student, this is her only opportunity to not spend Christmas alone.

“It’s nice that they’re providing this Ch ristmas atmosphere to IVC, to the EOPS students. Not all of us have family here,” said Urena.

Urena added that she wants to help others that are in the same situation she is faced with.

“I want to help people that are low income. That they’re giving up. But I want to show them that they have another chance. That there is people out there that are willing to care just like they did with me. ”

Student assistance programs like EOPS gives at-risk students hope that they can succeed.

“That it’s possible for them to continue and to get an education. So that can enjoy the lifestyle that they would like to live,” said EOPS Coordinator, Olga Artechi.

The holiday season can be hard for at-risk students.

“So a lot of these students have gone through a lot of hard times. Some are still going through it. But I think today shows some hope. It shows that there is humanity. There is someone out there that really believes not only in them but in the good things in life,” said Ruthy Argumedo, Molina Healthcare Associate Vice President of Community Engagement.

Argumedo said today’s event was about giving back to those who needed it the most.