All three of the San Mateo County Community College District's colleges—Cañada College, College of San Mateo, and Skyline College—are committed to helping students achieve their dreams of higher education through the Finish Line Fund.
The Finish Line Fund provides flexible, critical financial support to address barriers that too often force students to leave school. From textbooks and transportation to tools, food, and emergency aid, this fund ensures students have what they need to focus on their education and stay on track to graduate.
Student Impact Stories
“The Finish Line Fund helped me stay committed to my education. From paying rent to
making sure I had food, it lifted the financial stress so I could focus on graduating
and supporting my family.”
— Favian Rivera, Economics Major, College of San Mateo
“Balancing school, athletics, and life in a new country has been challenging, but
the Finish Line Fund has made it possible for me to keep going. It’s helped cover
transportation, groceries, and even shoes for track—giving me the chance to focus
on my education and my dreams.”
— Mele Petelo, Business Administration Major, College of San Mateo
How the Finish Line Fund Works
The Finish Line Fund covers essential costs that directly impact a student’s ability to stay enrolled and succeed, including:
- Textbooks and course materials: $100 can help a student afford supplies for a semester.
- Transportation and gas: $250 covers costs so students can get to class.
- Emergency support: $500 provides critical aid to keep a student enrolled during unexpected challenges.
This year alone, the SMCCC Foundation supported over 1,500 students by removing financial barriers and empowering them to achieve their goals.
The Cost of Support
At an average of $1,000 per student, the Finish Line Fund provides essential resources that ensure students can remain enrolled, graduate, and build brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Your Support Makes an Impact
Last year, the SMCCC Foundation awarded over $2 million to support students through scholarships and programs like the Finish Line Fund. Your generosity ensures students have the support they need to stay on track, achieve their dreams, and transform their lives.
To Support the Finish Line Fund
To support the program at a specific college, visit the Foundation's donation page. Under "Donate," choose "Finish Line Fund". You may also contact any of the Foundation's staff, and we'll help you with your donation.