Future Leaders Scholarship Program

The most vulnerable of the population residing in shelter are children and youth.

Higher education Is an essential component for the pathway out of poverty and homelessness. Yet our youth face multiple barriers to entering college.  Not least of these is accessing financial aid. Often the first in their family to apply to college, they lack the basic support to successfully negotiate the application process.  Once enrolled and attending college there are additional barriers to successfully select and complete a degree and graduate within five to six years.

The costs associated with a post-secondary education are a major barrier to graduation. NYC Department of Homeless Service (DHS), The office of Child Support Services (OCSS) and Thompson Family Benevolent Fund (TFBF) work with youth to remove these barriers, and to assist in their efforts to make higher education a reality.  However, deep poverty, high instability, school requirements and limited access to mentors, advisors and other social supports often make attending and succeeding in college a challenge.

The Research

Research shows that many students who are homeless are more likely to drop out of college due to their circumstances. The need to work while attending college reduces the time students can devote to their studies.  Not only do our students need to financially support themselves, but they are often called up to provide financial support to their families.  The majority lack funds to purchase books, clothes, school supplies, transportation and often meals. The level of emotional stress caused by homelessness often impedes students’ abilities to develop effective study skills and manage their academic careers.

Taking Action

To increase the number of students who succeed in college, DHS/OCSS/TFBF together have committed to instituting a flexible (cash) scholarship program. The goal of the program is to assist students financially during their post-secondary education and remove barriers to academic achievement and graduation.   There have been many instances when unexpected expenses threatened enrollment (eyeglasses, printer, boots, etc.).   The scholarship program maintains a connection, so that we may provide additional counseling, support and trouble shooting.

The combined efforts of DHS/OCSS/TFBF responding to individual circumstances, has increased the likelihood of earning a degree, as reported in the testimonials of our many graduates.