ALAMOSA – The Southwest Region Migrant Education Program (MEP) celebrated the 7th annual Adopt A Migrant Family for Christmas program. MEP delivered over 230 presents to children and parents and had 50 sponsors who donated.

“Our hearts are filled with joy and appreciation for all the continued support from numerous sponsors making this event so successful.  Every year we look forward to this event as it supplements some of the needs of our families,” said Esmeralda Martinez, director of Southwest Region Migrant Education Program. “We are extremely grateful and feel fortunate to receive support from so many agencies, community members, and volunteers who continue to participate in this initiative year after year.”

She also appreciates her Adams State MEP staff including Stephany Rodriguez-Moreno, Minga Francisco-Miguel, Edgar Martinez, Marisa Aguilar, Jennifer Valadez, Simona Guillen, Shanda Taylor, Matias Fransisco, and Kaylee Gomez. “They worked diligently to ensure the event was a success.”

Current Adams State College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) and MEP students hosted a food drive to provide complete Thanksgiving meals for 15 MEP families. Donations were received by Adams State faculty, staff and students.

In December, MEP provided 30 students with laptops, a generous donation from the MEP and Community Resources Housing Development Corporation (CRHDC).

This year, the Southwest Region Migrant Education Program served a yearly estimate of up to 620 students, aged birth-22, from 23 school districts in the San Luis Valley and Southwest Colorado. The program connects families of seasonal agricultural workers with community resources, monitors children’s achievements, and provides continuity as they change school districts.

The Southwest Region Migrant Education Program is located on the Adams State University campus at the southeast corner of Second St. and Richardson Ave. To learn more about the Southwest Region Migrant Education program, or to refer a family who may benefit from services, call 719-587-7612 or email [email protected].