According to the World Literacy Foundation, "Girls face a greater risk of illiteracy than their male peers. Approximately 496 million adult women worldwide cannot read and write – this is 2/3 of the illiterate population around the world. The long-term impact of this is staggering. From reducing infant mortality, increasing women’s agency, leadership skills, and employment, it is imperative that girls access literacy. "

Sherleen entered our Academic Club afterschool program reading below grade level and, within months was able to not only close her reading level gap but actually began reading above her grade level!

Regarding her experiences in the English as a Second Language (ESL) classes hosted at Bayside, Tinh says, "I joined Bayside's ESL class because I wanted to learn English well and communicate with other people. I really wish there were more English classes so everyone could have the opportunity to learn English well."

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, "Women are responsible for roughly half of the world’s food production, and in many countries they produce between 60 and 80 percent of the food. Yet globally, the prevalence of food insecurity is higher among women than men." Bayside is proud to help local women learn the skills necessary to overcome these challenges.

Diana, a Linda Vista resident, mother, and graduate of Bayside's Tiny Garden program says, "Tiny Gardens is an important program because it gives you the guidance and confidence that, no matter what your space is, you can grow your own food. Bayside gave us the supplies that opened our world to new crops and new possibilities."