Legislator Nancy E. Barr Presents $125,000 to LUCA

Westchester County Legislator Nancy E. Barr (D- Harrison, Rye Brook, Port Chester) delivered $125,000 in funding to LUCA to expand its Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Boot Camps and Information Sessions. Legislator Barr was joined by her colleague Legislator Erika L. Pierce (D- Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers) at the “big check” presentation.

Founded in 2012, LUCA transforms lives by making college dreams a reality for low-income, first-generation students in Westchester. The organization partners with high schools to guide students through the complex college admissions and financial aid process.

The Board’s investment will allow LUCA to offer its FAFSA Boot Camps and Information Sessions in public school districts across Port Chester, Peekskill, Ossining, Sleepy Hollow, New Rochelle, and White Plains—communities with a diverse student population and high need. At these sessions, LUCA staff and trained volunteers help students complete and submit both FAFSA and New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applications—crucial steps in accessing the financial aid that can make college affordable.

“FAFSA Boot Camps and Information Sessions offer critical guidance to students and families navigating the complex and evolving financial aid and college planning process,” said LUCA Executive Director and Founder Shirley Acevedo Buontempo. “At a time of significant changes to financial aid and growing concerns about higher education, these sessions help turn confusion into clarity and access into opportunity. We are deeply grateful to the Board of Legislators for their steadfast support in helping make college dreams a reality for so many families in Westchester County.”

Legislator Barr said, “I am pleased to help secure $125,000 for LUCA’s important work. Its programs provide essential support to students and their families who may be unfamiliar with the college application process and the intricacies of FAFSA and TAP forms, which are complex and can be difficult to navigate under the best of circumstances. I am particularly pleased that this program is available to Port Chester High School students in my district, many of whom will go on to become first-generation college students.”