Published 04/02/2026
It’s no secret that many Blue Ridge Community College students balance coursework with jobs, families, and unexpected life challenges. Thanks to the generosity of community supporters who believe in student success, the SOAR (Student Outreach and Resource) Center works to ensure those challenges do not derail a student’s education.
One of SOAR’s most effective and immediate supports is Lunch2Go, a simple yet powerful program that addresses food insecurity among qualifying students. Students receive $10 meal vouchers on days they attend on‑campus classes, redeemable at the bookstore or campus food trucks – providing nourishment, flexibility, and dignity.
Since January 2024, participation in Lunch2Go has more than tripled, reflecting both a growing need and increased awareness across campus. SOAR Coordinator Donna Clem explains that the program goes beyond meals. Regular interactions with students help staff identify academic, financial, and personal challenges early and connect students with the appropriate campus and community resources.
Other services offered through SOAR include:
- Single Stop, a free screening tool that assesses a student’s eligibility for federal, state and internal benefit programs and offers information about local resources
- TimelyCare, a free virtual health and well-being platform for students. It offers on-demand emotional support 24/7 from a licensed mental health professional and counseling
- Temporary Emergency Financial Assistance, for students facing unexpected financial challenges and hardships
- BRCC Cares, a program that provides basic personal hygiene essentials to students in need
Many of the services provided by the SOAR Center are funded through the BRCC Educational Foundation. Donor generosity makes it possible for BRCC to sustain a broader safety net for students when they need it most.
Foundation Executive Director Amy Kiger explained that tuition and book assistance – in the form of student scholarships – is a significant priority for the BRCC Educational Foundation. She added that in addition, for many years, the Foundation has also provided emergency funding to students as they deal with unexpected life challenges. “We are grateful to have generous donors who have made this funding possible! They understand that helping a student navigate a difficult financial situation may be the very thing that allows them to persist with their education.”