Sometimes, something as simple as a pair of shoes can make a real difference in a student’s day.

For one Oregon student, having the right specialized footwear meant being able to participate more comfortably in school activities alongside classmates.

It’s the kind of everyday need the OEA Foundation has been helping educators address since 1995, removing barriers that can make it harder for students to learn, participate, feel included, and succeed at school.

The Foundation provides grants to educators who work directly with students facing immediate challenges that can interfere with learning. Over the years, those grants have helped provide students with:

• Eyeglasses
• Winter coats and jackets
• Shoes
• Backpacks and school supplies
• Food assistance
• Medical and dental care

As an early and longstanding supporter of the OEA Foundation, California Casualty has provided continuous financial contributions to help educators meet these urgent needs.

This year, California Casualty contributed $15,000 to support the Foundation’s mission of helping students overcome barriers to academic success. The contribution will help fund approximately 150 student assistance grants, extending support to students and families across Oregon.

Those grants help address barriers affecting students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being, giving educators a way to respond when a student needs something that can make a meaningful difference in their ability to learn and participate at school. The OEA Foundation’s impact is made possible through the generous support of members, donors, and community partners.

California Casualty is honored to continue supporting the important work of the OEA Foundation and the educators who recognize when a student needs a little extra help to overcome an obstacle standing between them and their education.

Supporting the OEA Foundation reflects California Casualty’s longstanding commitment to serving educators and strengthening the communities where they live and work.

To learn more about the OEA Foundation and its programs, visit the Foundation’s website.