FAMILY  
STABILIZATION

With over 40% of Cobb students qualifying for free or reduced lunch, we recognize that some of our families have basic needs that the community can help us meet that may give students the ability to unlock the quality education that awaits them.


FAMILY  
STABILIZATION FUND POLICY

Supporting our Families in Times of Need
The Cobb Schools Foundation Family Stabilization Fund (FSF) is here to help families in the Cobb County School District (CCSD) who are facing unexpected financial hardships. We understand that life can be unpredictable, and we want to ensure that every student has the stability they need to succeed in school. Below, you will find an overview of how the fund works and what you need to know to apply.

Who Can Apply:

We offer support to families who meet the following requirements:

1. Students Enrolled in CCSD
• Your child must be enrolled in a CCSD school for at least three years.
• Exceptions are made for students in kindergarten through second grade.

2. Good Attendance
• Students in the household must have no more than five unexcused absences per semester.

3. CCSD Employees
• If you are employed by CCSD, you must have worked for at least three years and be in good standing, or you must be 60 years of age or older.

4. Financial Assessment
• You will need to complete a financial assessment to help us better understand your situation.  The form is available HERE

What Assistance is Available?

Depending on your needs, the FSF offers financial support in the following areas:


Housing Costs

• Temporary Housing or No Lease: Up to $300 for families staying in extended stay hotels or renting without a formal lease agreement. We cannot pay through third parties.

• Rental Assistance: Up to $1,000 if you have a lease agreement.

• Mortgage Support: Up to $2,500 for families with a mortgage.

• Eviction Fees: Covered only if a major illness or injury caused loss of income. Eviction fees due to job loss will not be covered.


Utility Bills

Utility payments can be supported up to $500. Your school social worker will need to contact the utility company on your behalf for us to assist.


Car Repairs

If your family is homeless or in unstable housing, we may assist with car repairs up to $2,000 to help ensure transportation stability.

How to Apply:

Submit Your Application HERE 

Complete the financial assessment form and provide all required documents. Make sure to include details about your specific need (e.g., rent payment, utilities).


Coordinate with School Social Worker

Please connect with the local school social worker, at minimum before applying, it will be required before any consideration is provided. For utility bills and some housing requests, your school’s social worker will verify your information and coordinate with the FSF committee.


Review Process

The FSF committee will carefully review your application and determine the level of support we can provide.


Exceptions

The committee has the flexibility to make decisions outside the standard guidelines if your situation is unique or requires special consideration.


Important Notes

Each family is eligible for assistance once per school year. Funds are limited and depend on availability, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible if you are in need.

Gerald Shelton Perseverance Award

By Kiara Garcia • March 11, 2026
Gerald Shelton Perseverance Scholarship A Memorial Tribute Honoring the Life of Gerald Shelton Gerald Shelton was a man defined by kindness, quiet strength, and a deep belief in the power of education. Throughout his life, he treated others with generosity and respect, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. For ten years, Mr. Shelton faced the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease with remarkable perseverance. Even as the disease progressed, the love and dedication he inspired in his family remained constant. His journey became a powerful example of resilience, patience, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Mr. Shelton believed that education opens doors and creates opportunities. He valued learning not only for the knowledge it provides, but for the confidence and determination it builds in young people as they shape their futures. A Legacy of Perseverance In honor of Gerald Shelton’s life and the perseverance he demonstrated during his battle with Alzheimer’s disease, the Cobb Schools Foundation is proud to establish the Gerald Shelton Perseverance Scholarship . This scholarship reflects the values Mr. Shelton lived by — resilience, determination, and the belief that education can help students overcome obstacles and reach their goals. The Gerald Shelton Perseverance Scholarship will support students who demonstrate the courage to keep moving forward when life becomes difficult. It celebrates young people who show determination, strength of character, and commitment to continue pursuing their education despite challenges. Continuing His Legacy Through this scholarship, Gerald Shelton’s legacy will live on in the lives of students who embody the same perseverance he showed throughout his life. Each recipient will carry forward his spirit of resilience — proving that when challenges arise, perseverance can lead the way to opportunity and hope. We are deeply grateful to Joy Doss, President of the Cobb Schools Foundation, and her family for honoring her daddy's life in a way that will inspire and support students for generations to come.

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By Kiara Garcia • March 3, 2026
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