Winterfest raises $4,410 to benefit MWCC’s Emergency Student Loan Fund

Mount Wachusett Community College’s student life office raised $4,410.85 last week to benefit the college’s Emergency Student Loan Fund that helps students buy textbooks, food, bus passes, gas and pay for other small expenses that can be a barrier to attending school.

The funds were raised through the two day “Winterfest” which featured gift basket and wreath raffles as well as a wide variety of handcrafted items from local vendors. In addition to the growth in funds raised by the raffles, there were more vendors than ever, allowing people to complete most of their holiday shopping in one quick trip.

This event brings together the community not only of Mount Wachusett Community College, but also residents from the surrounding region, said Mount Wachusett Community College Student Life Programming Assistant Kathy Matson who helped organize the annual event.

“This year’s event was even more successful than last year thanks to all of the departments and student clubs that donated baskets and wreaths as well as the many people who bought raffle tickets. This is a critical fund for helping students with short term, no interest loans that aid them with book purchases, transportation needs or other necessities during the semester,” said Matson.