Grand Rapids, Mich. – Michigan's foster care youth are eligible to receive college scholarships following a Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund Benefit Dinner in Grand Rapids organized by the Michigan Education Trust (MET) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

Friday evening's event at Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids was attended by approximately 150 guests who raised more than $27,400 for scholarships through MET, the Michigan Department of Treasury's 529 prepaid tuition program. 

"Youth who experienced foster care often have limited resources and support systems, which makes paying for college challenging," State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. "The Fostering Futures Scholarship provides a source of assistance to make the dream of college a reality for students who have experienced foster care. I thank the generosity of our sponsors, donors and guests for making this scholarship a reality."

A partnership between MET and MDHHS makes Fostering Futures Scholarships possible.

Close to 10,000 youth are in the Michigan foster care system run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Nationally, fewer than 10% of former foster youth enroll in college after high school and fewer than 3% eventually earn a degree.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund provides former Michigan foster care students who may not have adequate financial resources to attend college with a scholarship to a Michigan college or university. During the 2022-23 academic year, 429 students at 53 different institutions are eligible for support.   

Last year, about 467 students received the award, with 298 attending college in West Michigan.

“For many people who experienced foster care, the expenses associated with a college degree can be overwhelming or unattainable,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue the educational path that is right for them and their career goals.”

Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is a Section 170(c) organization, so all contributions are eligible for an income tax deduction.

Anyone who could not attend the event can make donations to the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund by visiting www.FosteringFutures-MI.com. Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is a Section 170 (c) non-profit organization.  All contributions are eligible for an income tax deduction.

Since 2012, fundraising efforts have totaled more than $1.3 million, with funds awarded as scholarships in the year they were raised. 

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