CHA Bids Farewell to More Than 200 College-Bound Freshmen at 15th Annual Take Flight College Send-Off

Nearly 70 schools locally and from across the country were represented Tuesday at the Chicago Housing Authority’s Take Flight College Send-Off. It was the largest turnout in the event’s 15-year history, with 210 incoming freshmen being provided a fond farewell at Malcolm X College days before leaving for college.

Students received words of encouragement and parting gifts, as they embark on the next chapter.

“College is an important step in your life and CHA and our partners are working in concert to make sure you are successful,” said Mary Howard, CHA’s Chief Resident Services and Administrative Officer. “I know that the hard work happens when you walk away from here and roll up your sleeves to get the job done. This is just the start of your journey and we will continue to offer you support every step of the way.”

The giant CHA trunk party is made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship support of Federal Home Loan Bank, Compudopt, Meijer and Black McDonald’s Operators Association (BMOA). All funds are raised by Springboard to Success.