Students urged to apply for scholarships

Young adults who have experienced foster care now have an opportunity to apply for a scholarship from the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund, according to the Michigan Department of Treasury.

From March 15 to June 30, eligible students enrolled at a Michigan degree-granting college or university have an opportunity to apply for a Fostering Futures Scholarship up to $3,000.

Awards are given based on need and paid to the students’ college or university to assist with tuition, fees, room, board, books and supplies.

“A growing number of our youth are reaching adult age while in foster care and have no resources to pay for college when they age out of the system,” said Robin Lott, executive director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET). “This scholarship provides some help with college expenses when no other assistance may be available.”

Since 2012, nearly $900,000 has been raised and awarded to students. The program is supported through individual donations, group donations, sponsorships, ticket sales, auctions and many volunteer-based fundraising events.

Funds raised during the calendar year are distributed annually to scholarship recipients.

Another option for donors, the education endowment, returns a portion of investment income annually as scholarships.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship is a joint effort between the Michigan Department of Treasury, Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
To apply or learn more about the Fostering Futures Scholarship, visit www.fosteringfutures-mi.com.

Questions should be directed to the Treasury’s Student Scholarships and Grants area at ssg@michigan.gov or call toll-free at 1-888-4-GRANTS (888-447-2687).