The state of Pennsylvania offers grants in the form of academic scholarships to children who have been adopted or are in foster care. These grants can provide needed assistance to children and youth who don't have parents to provide for them or who need extra chances to overcome the obstacles in their lives.
Pennsylvania State Foster Parent Association
The Pennsylvania State Foster Parent Association (PSFPA) offers scholarships to the state's foster children so they have the opportunity to continue their education after high school. Seniors who are currently in foster programs, public or private, and the biological or adopted children of PSFPA members, may apply. Applicants should fill out an application and be able to provide five references, including at least three letters of reference.
Pennsylvania State Foster Parent Association Scholarship
PO Box 60216
Harrisburg, PA 17106
psrfa.org
Horatio Alger Pennsylvania Scholarship Program
The Pennsylvania branch of the nation-wide Horatio Alger Scholarship Program is designed for students who have overcome personal difficulties to achieve success, such as foster children or those from a low-economic background. This branch of the program offers $5,000 scholarships to 50 students across the state. To qualify, students should be in their senior year of high school, must plan to pursue higher education, and must demonstrate that they have shown integrity and perseverance against the obstacles in their lives. Applicants must also demonstrate "critical" financial need, defined as $50,000 or less adjusted gross family income. Applications must be sent online.
Horatio Alger Pennsylvania Scholarship Program
Horatio Alger Association
99 Canal Center Plaza
Suite 320
Alexandria, VA 22314
horatioalger.org
Orphan Foundation of America Sponsored Scholarships
The Orphan Foundation of America Sponsored Scholarships, offered from the OFA in conjunction with contributions from private donors, offers awards for students who are adopted or in foster care all across the nation. Each year, 250 students receive scholarships from the OFA; awards may be either $2,500 for one year of community college or $5,000 for two years of a four-year college. Specific requirements vary by year and eligibility can be set by the sponsors.
Orphan Foundation of America Sponsored Scholarships
21351 Gentry Drive
Suite 130
Sterling, VA 20166
571-203-0270
orphan.org