Education Assistance for Citrison Worker Families

Citrison SA, a company that packs and markets citrus fruits and juices supplied by its associated farms, operates in a community where many workers are raising school-aged children. A recent needs assessment revealed that education is a major priority for these families. The survey found that 51% of workers have children or dependents currently studying, and 36% of those students do not receive scholarships or financial assistance. For many households, the rising costs of school supplies, tuition, and course fees place heavy pressure on family budgets, increasing the risk that students may have an interruption to their education progression. Determined to support their children's futures, the General Assembly took action. In 2025, they allocated $8,200 USD in Community Development Funds to launch a comprehensive educational support initiative. The project provides practical assistance tailored to different levels of schooling. Families with children in preschool, primary, and secondary school receive essential school supplies to help them prepare for the academic year. Meanwhile, the project offers direct financial support to help cover educational expenses for older students pursuing high school, university degrees, master’s programs, or specialized vocational courses. In total, the program currently benefits 122 students who are dependents of workers and farmers from orange farms associated with Citrison. By helping families cover these vital education costs, the initiative empowers students to continue their studies uninterrupted, participate fully in school activities, and build brighter futures for themselves and their community