The MassBay Community College Foundation believes strongly that education is a powerful door to the future. Right now, many bright, hardworking students are walking through that door at MassBay.
There are students eager to build careers in jobs that will one day serve our local community – as nurses, first responders, automotive technicians, and Early Childhood educators, to name a few. There are recent high school graduates whose two years at MassBay will provide a head start in earning a four-year degree at a significant savings. Others are changing careers and need to gain specific skills in areas like health care, cyber security, and education.
These students have the drive to succeed, but the rising cost of textbooks can create an unexpected hurdle while already balancing work, family, and academic obligations. Not having the financial resources to purchase required textbooks can be the tipping point that leads to dropping the course, or dropping out altogether.
The breaking point looks different for every student and often depends on their course of study. For some, it’s the extra $130 for a required English book, and for others it’s $400 for multiple books for one financial accounting class. A student’s determination, not the cost of a textbook, should shape their future.
“I juggle part-time work with a full course load, which can be overwhelming. Finances are tight, and there are times when I’ve had to choose between paying a bill or buying textbooks. On top of that, I help care for a family member, which adds another layer of responsibility. These challenges often make it hard to stay focused and motivated. Despite everything, I remain determined to succeed in school and improve my circumstances through education.”
-Angel, studying for a certificate in Human Services
This is why MassBay created the Textbook Assistance Fund. Last year, the fund provided 668 grants, with an average grant of $159. For many students, this help made it possible to start the semester with the books they needed. But for others, their textbook costs are more than they can afford even with this help.
MassBay College Foundation’s goal is to expand the program by raising $75,000 this year so they can provide assistance to more students and increase the size of the grants they are able to provide. Every student deserves the chance to succeed and by contributing to the Lenten Gift we are helping our neighbors on their pathway to success.
Next weekend, March 21-22, will be our Special Second Collection to support this effort. By supporting this collection, you will not just be helping to buy books; you will be helping to provide the tools these students need to succeed, and to remind them that the community supports them and their dreams.
Cash or checks (made payable to your parish with “2026 Lenten Gift” in the memo) may be placed in the special Second Collection next weekend. Checks may also be mailed to the Collaborative Business Office (39 Washington St. Wellesley, MA 02481) or dropped at either parish office during business hours. Donations may be made online at any time by visiting the Collaborative Lenten Gift page.
SJSP staff and Service Commission members at MassBay Community College’s Wellesley campus.
This space was formerly the chapel of the Academy of the Assumption.