Dear Family and Friends of Imani Christian Academy,

This update is unlike ones that I typically send, because more than anything else, it is a call to action. 

Normally, I’m happy to share with you matters concerning the school.  Good things, like the conference we held for our young ladies; like the joy of bumping into an alum at the Homecoming game; like the pleasant surprise I experienced when senior students asked if they could wear blazers as part of their uniform.  All good things. But in this moment, I would be remiss not to share with you the challenging context in which all of this is occurring.

You see, the federal budget has not been passed, the state budget is at an impasse, and Imani is feeling the impact.  Since July, the state has not paid Imani for its PreK Counts Program, an early childhood education program for economically disadvantaged children ages 3-4 years old.  The budget delay is also impacting Imani’s access to critical tax credit programs used to support the school.   Imani typically receives these funds from now until January but has received none due to the budget delay.  At the moment, it is unclear if the PA budget will pass prior to Thanksgiving.  

It is also unclear if Imani will receive timely reimbursement for its breakfast, lunch and snack program provided to the students, as these are federal funds administered by the state.  Many of our students rely on these meals each day for nutrition.  

At times like these, we are not without hope.  Our faith remains in our God and in you – our supporters, our friends, our advocates.  At times like these, it is your generosity of spirit and your responsiveness that makes all the difference in the world.  When the powers that be fail to act, your swift and collective action can help us weather the storm.

Please consider making a donation to help us through this challenging period.