YUMA, AZ (KYMA, KECY) – Graduation season is fast approaching, but one Yuma native is making a difference for local graduates who need a little extra support.

Isaac Navarrete was a junior at Kofa High School when he started a program called Grant a Gown.

Its mission is to help upcoming high school graduates who are unable to pay for their graduation cap and gown.

Each year, at least 30 students from every high school in the Yuma Union High School District cannot afford to buy hats and gowns, Navarrete said.

The average cost is $30 to $50, which is a burden for many students.

Navarrete says the hat and gown are a sign of celebration and his mission is to ease the burden on students with financial needs at this important milestone in their lives.

Yuma County high school students graduating in 2023 can fill out a request form here.

Grant a Gown fulfills its mission through donations from the community.

Without these community contributions, alumni can set themselves apart without worrying about borrowing or reusing old hats and gowns.

If you would like to donate to support local alumni, please call Venmo @grantagownyuma or (928) 271-0116.