MONTEREY COUNTY — Many Monterey County students aspire to attend college, but the cost of higher education keeps them from achieving that dream. Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) has been working with individuals, families and businesses to help close the gap.
More than $1.5 million in CFMC scholarship awards is available for Monterey County students in 2024.
“These dollars represent a recognition by our community that equitable access to higher education is critical to ensuring students reach their potential,” said Dan Baldwin, CFMC president/CEO.
One application allows students to access more than 70 different scholarships they may qualify for. Students can apply through the Community Foundation for Monterey County’s online scholarship system and find additional resources at cfmco.org/ScholarshipApply. Separate applications are available for additional scholarships.
Applications opened Jan. 5, and the deadline to complete an application for the 2024-25 academic year is Friday, March 15. Recipients will be announced at the end of May 2024.
“These scholarships help create positive change in our community and let students know people believe in them,” said Esther Figueroa, CFMC Scholarships and Community Impact Officer.
CFMC scholarship funds are established by people who recognize the value of education and want to help students achieve their goals. The CFMC manages more than 70 scholarship funds and awarded more than $2 million to 495 students in 2023.
Donors can create their own scholarship fund or support existing funds, such as the College Futures Monterey County scholarship program, where 95% of recipients are the first in their families to attend college.
“Receiving the scholarship has made everything so much easier. I’m free to focus on my studies. The CFMC helps elevate low-income students pursuing higher education,” said Brandon Le, recipient of the College Futures scholarship.
To learn more, contribute or create a fund, call 831-375-9712 or visit cfmco.org/scholarships.
