'A meaningful vote of confidence': Communities in Schools Houston receives $13 million

Communities in Schools (CIS) of Houston will be the recipient of $13 million donation from billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

“This gift is a meaningful vote of confidence in our organization, our partners, our donors and most importantly our students,” said Lisa Descant, CEO for CIS of Houston in a press release. “We are now in a place to imagine even more exciting and impactful ways to empower our students by connecting them with resources and role models which reinforce the deeply-held belief we have for each of them to live out their boldest dreams.”

The Houston Chronicle reported that Descant became aware that Scott wanted to make a donation to the nonprofit in November.

Descant told the newspaper that there are districts and schools that call the organization every day that they have to turn away and the donation will help aid the community.  

“This doesn't allow us to do all that is needed for schools today, though it does help us develop plans and continue community support,” she added.

The donation is part of a bigger $133.5 million donation from Scott to CIS and National Office, according to the news release.

Scott, who made a living as an author, was formerly married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and is worth $46 million after the couple split in 2019. She decided to utilize her wealth with philanthropic endeavors, according to the Houston Chronicle.    

According to CIS, the gift will help the organization build upon its mission to help students and families in distress with educational support and guidance.  

President of CIS Rey Saldaña said it would help students overcome barriers in order to have a brighter future.

“CIS of Houston serves such a large and diverse community and today’s unrestricted gift recognizes the notable successes they already have achieved and offers the catalyst for them to continue their mission and move their work forward in bold new ways,” Saldaña said.