Bibiana Calzada - CCRH IDA Recipient & Peoples' Self Help Housing Resident

A few years ago, I would have never imagined I would be where I am today. I was brought to the states when I was just one year old. Growing up, my parents worked long labor-intensive hours every day, so I had to dedicate most of my time to cooking and cleaning for my four younger siblings. This made school work a challenge at times, but at the same time it also forced me to work harder to have a chance at the future my parents wanted for me.

My family and I always lived on a budget, so naturally I thought I would never go to college because I could not afford it. As a little girl I aspired to be a nurse just like my aunt but, for many years, it was simply a dream. The thought of going off to college felt like I was being selfish because I would be leaving my family, my home duties and I would be stressing out my family over money. But when I first learned about this program (CCRH IDA for students with Peoples' Self-Help Housing), it gave me hope and made me realize I was not being selfish for wanting to pursue my dream.

Today, I am proud to say I am a DACA, first generation student at Sonoma State University, studying to be a nurse. My name is Bibiana Calzada and because of this program I was able pursue my dream of attending college; Thank you to the IDA program, and to future donors for changing student’s lives like mine.

DO YOU RUN A SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS LIKE BIBIANA? CCRH MIGHT BE ABLE TO HELP BY DOUBLING THE AMOUNT THE STUDENT RECEIVES! *

For more information, contact Rachel@calruralhousing.org

*IDA recipients must be able to save a portion of their award over a period of at least six months