What is Cougar Cares?

9/26/2025 8:09 pm

Cougar Cares is the student and family support branch of the CHS HSA. From everyday basics to special milestones, Cougar Cares is here to make sure students feel seen, supported and celebrated. And we couldn't do it without you! The need in our community is very real and more extensive than most people realize. Cougar Cares is on call year-round to help fill needs as they arise.

Cougar Cares' mission is to enable every student at Columbia High School to participate fully in all activities by offering discreet, supportive, and stigma-free assistance to those in need, through food support, access to school activities and events, emergency care, and advocacy to address hidden barriers to access. Throughout the year, you'll see requests for specific donations, such as snacks, personal care products, clothing, and other supplies, but your HSA donations fund the core of Cougar Cares' work. Keep scrolling to learn more about how Cougar Cares is working behind the scenes to support students and families ... and how YOU can help.

Cougar Cares is here to help! If you have questions, want to get involved with the Cougar Cares team, or need financial assistance with CHS activities or programs, please contact us at cougarcares@columbiahsa.com.  Students can also reach out to Ms. Liz Petroccia in the CHS Counseling Department or Ms. Jenny Easton in the Counseling Annex (next to the Alumni Commons).