SWC News Center

Student Trustee Rises with CARES Support

By: Stephanie Kingston - October 31, 2025

When Mercedes Robles and her family moved from Mexico to Chula Vista, she was determined to pursue her education and build a bright future. But the reality of high housing costs quickly turned her dream into a daily struggle. As she began her first year at Southwestern College, she, her mother and her siblings found themselves living out of their car.

“We found the rent here was very high and my mother, three siblings and I had to live in our car,” Mercedes recalled. 

Despite the difficult circumstances and instability, Mercedes showed up on campus ready to learn. Encouraged by fellow students, she connected with SWC CARES, a campus-wide initiative supported by the SWC Foundation that brings together vital resources to support students in need.

The JAG Kitchen became a daily source of support, providing Mercedes with food, clothing, blankets, and other essential items. CARES also stepped in with an emergency grant thanks to SWC Foundation donors, covering six nights in a hotel offering her safety, privacy, and a sense of peace. Later, their resources helped her family secure more stable housing with rental assistance.

Mercedes also received support from EOPS and ASO, receiving aid for an iPad, and books. These resources have allowed her to continue her studies while taking care of her siblings, ages 14 and 8, of whom she is now the legal guardian.

Through every challenge, Mercedes remained committed to her education and to giving back. Today, she serves as Student Trustee on the Governing Board, representing the voices of thousands of students.

“Students are the heartbeat of the college,” she says. “I want to be a voice for others in my community and to help make greater change whenever I can.”

She wishes to pursue a degree in political science as Mercedes is passionate about advocating for equity and community resources. She credits her success to the network of support at Southwestern College.

“I’m deeply grateful to the SWC Foundation, CARES, EOPS, ASO, and the Governing Board for being so helpful and receptive,” she said. 

Mercedes Robles’ journey from homelessness to leadership is a testament to resilience, and a powerful reminder that when we invest in students, we transform lives.