The Washington State budget recently signed by Governor Bob Ferguson claims to protect “the most vulnerable,” but behind that claim is a devastating truth: funding for the College Success Foundation (CSF) Spokane has been eliminated.

This program has been a critical support system for low-income, first-generation, and diverse students across Spokane. CSF helps students navigate college admissions, complete the FAFSA, find scholarships, access emergency funds, and stay in college. For many of us, it’s the only support we have.

I’ve been a CSF scholar since high school. Now, as a junior at Gonzaga University and a journalist with Range Media, I’m seeing firsthand what this cut means for our community. Just last week, CSF Spokane hosted its annual College Signing Day. Over 500 students attended. There was pride, hope, and a sense of future. One week later, that hope has been pulled out from under us.

This isn't just a line item in a budget. This is about real students — hundreds of us — who are now without one of the most effective college success programs in Washington.

We’re calling on Governor Ferguson and state lawmakers to restore funding for CSF Spokane immediately. If Washington truly believes in equity and access to education, it must invest in programs that make college possible — not cut them.

Stand with Spokane students. Sign and share this petition.