When Angela Sanchez’s computer broke down at the start of the summer quarter, the business administration major from Bakersfield suddenly found herself struggling to keep up with their classes.

“I had no choice but to rely on my tablet, which made it really difficult to keep up with assignments, join Zoom meetings and access certain programs and websites I needed for my classes,” she said. “Everything was just piling up, and I started to worry that this would affect my grades.”

Support from Cal Poly Cares Emergency Grant helped them get back on track — and during this year’s Poly Gives, April 9–11, 2026, gifts to the program will go even further. An anonymous Cal Poly parent has pledged $25,000 in matching funds to support Cal Poly Cares grant, doubling the impact of donations made during the campaign.

Sanchez learned about Cal Poly Cares grant through a friend.

“I had no idea this was something the school could help me with,” they said. “It honestly changed everything.”

Within two weeks of submitting their application, Sanchez received notice that it had been approved. With the grant money that she received the following month, she was able to purchase a new MacBook — something they previously thought would not be possible given the cost.

“I was able to fully participate in class again and felt confident that I had the tools I needed to finish the summer term,” she said. “That kind of support doesn’t just fix a technical issue; it lifts a huge weight off your shoulders and reminds you that people care. I’m incredibly grateful."

Cal Poly Student Affairs provides out-of-the-classroom experiences, resources, services and programs to support students from the moment they arrive on campus through commencement. Cal Poly Cares grant, a Student Affairs initiative, offers financial assistance to students navigating unexpected hardships, including the loss of a parent, natural disasters, homelessness, food insecurity and other challenges throughout the year. With grants of up to $2,000, the program assists students who cannot reasonably resolve their financial situation and have exhausted all available funding sources. The funds are intended to offset short-term financial needs and are not intended to replace or supplement financial aid.

Since July of last year, close to 400 grants have been awarded to students by Cal Poly Cares grant totaling over $350,000, of which almost $200,000 came from private donors.

Given their experience, Sanchez now makes sure their friends and fellow students know about this resource available during times of need. Sanchez also expressed gratitude to the alumni, parents and donors who support and fund the program.

“Thank you, alumni,” she said. “You’re the best.”

Poly Gives 2026 raised over $835,000 from 1120 donors, thanks in part to generous matching gifts like this one. Thanks to everyone who helped support Poly Gives this year!

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