Nearly 40 Capistrano Unified Classified Employees Receive Food Assistance as CSEA Chapter 224 Advocates for CSESAP Opt-In
San Clemente, CA (August 5, 2024) – On Thursday, July 25, nearly 40 Capistrano Unified (CUSD) classified employees facing financial hardship during the summer months received much-needed food assistance. The event, organized by the Classified School Employees Association’s (CSEA) Capistrano Unified Chapter 224 and the Community Outreach Alliance, highlighted the critical need for the Classified School Employees Assistance Program (CSESAP) in the district.
CSESAP is a state assistance program that classified employees contribute to and the state matches the contribution, paying out in the summer when some classified employees are out of work. The program was created by the California legislature to provide summer financial relief to classified school employees who earn less than $62,400 annually. By opting into CSESAP, school districts can help alleviate the summer financial shortages faced by essential staff members such as paraeducators, library media techs, office staff, food service staff and campus supervisors.
Despite the program’s benefits, CUSD declined to opt in by the January 1, 2024 deadline. CSEA Chapter 224 is determined to demonstrate the significant need for CSESAP within the district and is actively campaigning for CUSD to opt in by the upcoming January 1, 2025 deadline.
“Our classified employees are the backbone of our schools,” said Juli Isola, co-chair of CSEA Chapter 224’s subcommittee Your Effort Secures Summer, designed to lead union action in getting CSESAP passed by the district. “We work tirelessly to create safe and supportive learning environments for our students during the school year. Offering CSESAP to classified employees will keep these experienced, knowledgeable people with the students they serve and help attract more qualified candidates. It really is a win-win-win for the community, district and staff.”
The food distribution event served as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by many CUSD classified employees during the summer months. CSEA Chapter 224 remains committed to advocating for the well-being of its members and securing the necessary support to help them thrive both personally and professionally.
About CSEA Chapter 224
CSEA Chapter 224 represents the interests of classified school employees in the Capistrano Unified School District. The chapter is dedicated to improving working conditions, securing fair compensation, and advocating for the well-being of its members.
About Community Outreach Alliance
The Community Outreach Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and resources to individuals and families in need.