Debbe Hirata, Development Chair Holy Family School Phone: 206.933.8652
SEATTLE -- Holy Family School today announced a $200,000 gift from Bill and Melinda Gates to support a renovation project of the Holy Family School building, originally constructed in 1927. The William H. Gates Foundation grant – which is the largest gift in the school's history – will support the launch of a comprehensive renovation effort for the White Center neighborhood school, located in southwest King County.
"We are especially proud of our diversity and the remarkable unity that is shared among the children and the families at Holy Family School," said Stephen Morissette, principal of Holy Family School. "It is a wonderful environment where children learn and play with people representing the world as it is today and prepares them for the world as it will be tomorrow."
White Center is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the state of Washington and Holy Family School is committed to sustaining an active presence in the White Center community, providing a source of hope for children, and providing a resource to strengthen the diverse and changing neighborhood population. Holy Family School's student body is representative of the diverse community; 52 percent of the children are of color. The school is proud to provide an environment that promotes learning and cooperation among all students.
"Holy Family School is located in one of the most economically challenged neighborhoods in King County. Our richness in diversity far exceeds our financial resources, but with this gift from Bill and Melinda Gates, we can ensure a stable and safe learning environment for our children," commented Morissette.
"Kids need a safe and secure place to learn and grow. Holy Family School is such an important educational facility for the White Center neighborhood and we are pleased to support them," said Bill Gates, Sr., Foundation director.