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Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast (BBBSSUN) – Lee, Collier and Hendry Counties recently received a generous grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation to fund professionally supported one to one mentoring for youth facing adversity. The generous grant was awarded in the amount of $100, 000 to serve the southern region of the agency’s footprint which includes Lee, Collier and Hendry Counties. The foundation has been a loyal and generous donor to the agency and during these unprecedented times expedited the grant disbursement, delivering it several months early. “Our Staff is actively supporting vital, life-changing mentoring relationships to engage in social-emotional and educational support of our young people and families. The thoughtful support from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation provides for more children to be served in these very difficult times and we are immensely grateful,” said Joy Mahler, President/CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast transitioned swiftly at the outset of COVID-19, moving all face-to-face interactions online - from recruiting and screening to enrolling and facilitating strong, healthy matches. The agency has ensured Bigs and Littles receive ongoing support. At the same time they have connected new mentors and children through virtual interviews and match meetings, officially welcoming them as Bigs and Littles in the interim of meeting face-to-face. Services continue to be delivered online and will remain so until social distancing requirements are no longer required.