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Lifting Up Westchester (LUW), a community-based nonprofit agency that provides life-changing support to people who have lost their housing or are struggling to meet their other basic needs, announces its ninth annual student essay contest. Open to all seventh through twelfth grade students attending school and living in Westchester County, this year’s contest is entitled The Power of Connection because it asks students for their perspective on why emotional connections are important in supporting our Westchester neighbors in need.

“Over the eight years we have been running this contest, we have been impressed by the compassion and creativity students have demonstrated when writing about addressing homelessness in Westchester. We look forward to hearing their perspectives on how to invest in a more secure future for the individuals and families we serve.” Said Anahaita Kotval, CEO of Lifting Up Westchester.

LUW’s programs are designed to help anyone facing homelessness, hunger, or extreme poverty, including Emergency Shelter, Housing Services, Meals and Community Support, Employment and Youth Programs.

The essay contest was established in 2017 in memory of Beth Massey Rubens, a lifelong teacher, tutor, and mentor who had a love for language arts. Last year’s contest included work by students from over 40 schools throughout the county. Since its inception, more than 1,600 students have participated, representing a cross section of public, private, and parochial schools across Westchester.

First, second, and third place prizes will be awarded in each of the three grade groups: 7th and 8th; 9th and 10th; and 11th and 12th. First prize in each category is $500, second prize is $250, and third prize is $100.

The contest kicks off on October 29, 2025, and students can enter through February 1, 2026.  Students should enter the contest through google docs and upload their essays. Winners will be announced in early March 2026 and an awards ceremony will take place on March 22, 2026. Students, teachers, and parents can learn more about how the contest works and review the judging process and criteria by visiting Lifting Up Westchester’s website.

Founded in 1979, Lifting Up Westchester (LUW) is a nonprofit organization providing life-changing support to people who have lost their housing or are struggling to meet their other basic needs. Each year, the organization partners with over 3,000 men, women, and children experiencing homelessness and hunger to build a more secure future for themselves and their families. LUW envisions a community where everyone has a stable place to call home. With secure housing, people have the ability to focus on improving their health, education, and employment. LUW’s team helps people find a home, build on that foundation, and achieve greater self-sufficiency.

For more information about Lifting Up Westchester, visit www.liftingupwestchester.org or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.