Student Assistance Grants

The North Thurston Education Foundation is an independent, community-based 501(c)3 nonprofit that’s mission is to mobilize resources to provide basic needs, enrich programs, and enhance educational opportunities for the students and staff of North Thurston Public School.

Lacey, WA has a very diverse population, and a large number of soldiers and their families chose Lacey as their home.  In the 2025-25 school year, North Thurston Public Schools served over 14,500 students, with nearly half of them (6,367) relying on the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, and 1,101 students identified as homeless. 

Imagine the impact of helping all students keep the lights on at home or ensuring a family has a safe place to stay for the night. The North Thurston Education Foundation’s Give Local campaign supports students in overcoming these and many other challenges through our Student Assistance Grants. Each year, these grants cover essential needs like a $100 utility bill that keeps the lights on or $500 for Emergency Rental Assistance, sparing a family from being evicted from the home.

For students in need, these small grants create stability in their lives, allowing them to focus on school instead of worrying about where they’ll sleep or whether they’ll have the tools they need. Just $30 provides an ASB card, unlocking access to clubs and activities, while $87 covers the cost of an AP exam, helping keep a student's college dreams within reach. A $250 gift opens doors to music and drama, experiences that expand students’ horizons, while a $1,500 Learning Improvement Grant boosts student learning across an entire school or classroom.

Donating to Give Local is more than charity—it’s a lifeline. Together, we can remove obstacles that stand between students and their potential. Join us in giving the gift of hope and stability to students across our district, helping build a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed.