By Lookout Staff

February 4, 2021 -- The Santa Monica Education Foundation raised $154,983 for local schools spurred by a $15,000 matching grant from the Miramor Hotel and its owner, organization officials reported Thursday.

A total of 365 donors contributed to the annual parent fundraising drive last week that directly supports instructional aides, art programs, STEM classes and other initiatives at Santa Monica schools.

Like other recent fundraising drives, the campaign took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has lowered the amount of donations collected, Foundation officials said.

“Even during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, this community’s dedication to public education is outstanding," Ed Foundation Executive Director Linda Greenberg said in a statement.

"Thank you to each donor who participated. Every gift counts."

Greenberg also thanked the Miramar Hotel and its owner, MSD Partners, L.P. for "their continued dedication to our local schools.

"Their commitment and leadership are an inspiration to so many who participated in this match,” Greenberg said.

MSD Partners and The Miramar "are delighted with the results of this match,” said Ellis O’Connor of MSD Partners.

“We are proud of our partnership with the Ed Foundation to help ensure that Santa Monica students experience an enriched education," O’Connor said.

"We continue to be humbled by the community’s wonderful response to our matches over the years with the Ed Foundation. They are a wonderful example of the community coming together with a common purpose -- to provide outstanding opportunities for our local children.”

Last year, a $25,000 matching grant from the Miramar Hotel and MSD Partners raised $213,000 in donations from 286 donors, exceeding the Foundation's goal ("Education Foundation Raises More than $200,000 Spurred by Miramar Matching Grant," January 7, 2020).

The Foundation will continue fundraising for next year’s programs through June 30 with individual donations, its annual Santa Monica Wine Auction in the spring and corporate donations, Greenberg said.

"I implore anyone who wants to help children in our local public schools to make a donation," she said.

For more information or to make a donation to support Santa Monica students, visit http://smedfoundation.org.