Four years ago, the Madruga-Remedios Scholarship helped three Mercy Housing California residents pursue their educational goals. This year, 15 students received scholarships to pursue their academic and career aspirations, thanks to the generosity of Janice Madruga and Caje Remedios, the steadfast advocacy and partnership of Mercy Housing’s Sister Patsy Harney, and a growing community of donors inspired by their example.

Rooted in a shared belief in the transformative power of education, the Madruga-Remedios Scholarship supports residents from Sunnydale and Visitacion Valley who are working toward college degrees, vocational certifications, and career training opportunities. By investing in students today, Janice and Caje are helping strengthen families and communities for years to come.

Their generosity has done more than fund scholarships. It has inspired additional contributions from individuals and faith communities, allowing the program’s impact to grow each year. What began as a small initiative has expanded into a meaningful source of support for residents pursuing their dreams.

Scholarship Impact Since 2022

• 40 scholarships awarded
• $48,024 invested in students
• 15 scholarships awarded in 2026

“We both had difficulties financing our education. Today, we are fortunate to have built fulfilling lives, and we believe educational opportunities should be available to everyone. We hope recipients use these opportunities to achieve their goals and someday pay it forward.” – Janice Madruga and Caje Remedios

This year’s scholarship recipients are pursuing a wide range of educational and career paths. Students are attending institutions including UC Berkeley, Cal Poly, San Francisco State University, and CSU East Bay, preparing for careers in public health, nursing, social work, public policy, economics, and data science. Their ambitions reflect the talent, determination, and potential found throughout Mercy Housing communities.

The scholarship’s impact extends far beyond financial assistance. For many students, it provides encouragement, confidence, and reassurance that their community believes in their success.

One such student is Kimari Guillory, who is pursuing an online master’s degree through Union Commonwealth University. The flexible and affordable program allows her to continue working while furthering her education. Kimari previously received scholarship support while earning her undergraduate degree at Tulane University, making her educational journey a powerful example of the long-term impact these investments can have.

“Receiving this scholarship allows me to continue my educational journey and build on the foundation Mercy Housing helped provide me. I hope to work in healthcare administration and public health leadership, focusing on advancing health equity and improving access to care.

I hope to use my education and experiences to give back to communities like the one that raised me. I want to carry that same commitment forward by advocating for underserved communities and helping others recognize their own potential, just as so many people did for me.” – Kimari Guillory

The success of the Madruga-Remedios Scholarship is a testament to Janice and Caje’s enduring commitment to educational opportunity. Year after year, they have invested not only in students’ academic goals, but also in their dreams, potential, and future contributions to society.

Through their generosity, doors are being opened for students pursuing brighter futures while strengthening the communities they call home. The impact of these scholarships will continue to be felt for years to come through the achievements of the students they support.

Opportunities like these are possible because of supporters who believe every person deserves a chance to thrive. To learn more about supporting resident programs and educational opportunities, contact Adam Bad Wound at adam.badwound@mercyhousing.org