VENTURA COUNTY — House Farm Workers! has opened applications for its 7th annual Ellen Brokaw House Farm Workers! scholarship for college-bound and current college students who are children of Ventura County farm workers, including seasonal and retired farm workers. Eligible students may submit applications online at www.HouseFarmWorkers.org. Three students will be selected to receive $3,000.00 each towards their continued education and will be honored at House Farm Workers! annual “From Field to Fork,” fundraiser, which will be held in July. Scholarship applications must be submitted no later than April 29, 2022.
The scholarship is named in honor of Ellen Brokaw, an important member of the agricultural community in Ventura County and the founding chairwoman of House Farm Workers!. Brokaw, a prominent member of our county’s agricultural community, is a dedicated and inspirational leader and advocate who is committed to improving the lives of farm workers and their families.
“This scholarship is just one way we can support our local farm worker families,” stated Gabrielle Vignone, Executive Director for House Farm Workers!. “Along with access to safe housing, we believe that all members of our community benefit when opportunities for greater education are provided. This scholarship reflects our commitment to ensuring that our farm worker families thrive for generations.” Studies show that when affordable housing is provided for farm workers, entire families benefit from living in a stable environment that is safe for their children. This impacts agricultural improvements, as employees are more likely to be dependable and reliable while working in one of Ventura County’s most vital industries.
With a long-term goal of a career in education, 2019 recipient Eric Magan?a shares how the scholarship funds, and the House Farm Workers! community has supported him, “It has helped me immensely with technology, books and general support throughout my first year, especially during the 2020 pandemic, and having to transition to online learning.” Jesus Martinez, a 2021 scholarship recipient, was able to purchase equipment needed for his architecture program at University of California, Berkeley.
About the Organization – Since 2004, House Farm Workers! has been promoting safe, decent, secure and affordable housing for farm workers and their families in Ventura County through education and advocacy. The nonprofit 501c3 actively and continually advocates for the agricultural community to elected representatives and community leaders about the need for safe, decent and affordable housing for Ventura County farm workers and their families. There are approximately 41,600 employed farmers in the county, all of which hold key roles in Ventura County’s $2 billion-a-year agricultural industry. The average farm worker’s annual income is $22,000, which is less than the average price of an apartment per year in Ventura County. – www.HouseFarmWorkers.org, (805) 921-0430, info@HouseFarmWorkers.org