“81.5% increase in average annual earnings from High School Diploma to Bachelor’s degree or higher.”

Women’s Scholarship Fund

One of the strongest resources against poverty is education. The organization responsible for making the above impact on the lives of women and their earnings is known as the Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund (JRF). This scholarship fund sets out to empower women through education and opportunity. Over the past 40 years, JRF has provided scholarships and support for low-income women nationwide and has helped them build a better future for themselves and their families.

With the help of this organization, women and their families have been able to break out of generational poverty. To date, JRF has awarded over $3 million in scholarships to more than 1,000 women. For many, education can mean the difference between surviving on minimum wage and living on a decent salary. With a more financially secure future, these women can stop the cycle of poverty and promote growth in their communities.

Eligibility Requirements:

The application for the 2019-2020 school year will be available in November 2018. Here are the eligibility requirements for application:

• A woman, age 35 or older.
• Low-income (based on specific requirements).
• A U.S. Citizen or Permanent resident of the U.S.
• Pursuing a technical, vocational, associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
• Enrolled in or accepted to a non-for-profit regionally accredited institution.

Women’s Independence Scholarship Program

There are a great number of extraordinary scholarships that support women. The Women’s Independence Scholarship Program is dedicated to helping women reach their full potential and live their dreams. This is an organization that assists less fortunate women who are survivors of partner abuse. The Women’s Independence Scholarship Program provides these women a chance to further their education, secure employment and gain personal independence.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a female survivor of intimate partner abuse.
• Be separated from her abuser a minimum of one year but not more than seven years.
• Demonstrate need for financial assistance.
• Have sought services from a non-profit agency that provides services to survivors of intimate partner abuse for a minimum of 6 consecutive months. This agency must be willing to act as a sponsor through providing mentorship and support throughout her educational experience.
• A U.S. citizen or Permanent resident of the U.S.
• The Desire to complete a training and/or academic program.
• A plan to use desired training to upgrade skills for career or reenter the job market.

More Ways To Pay

Education grants are free money provided to help individuals pay for college. Usually issued by the government, private or nonprofit organizations, education grants are a form of financial aid that never have to be repaid. These free funds provide many individuals with an opportunity to pursue passions that otherwise may not have been possible. This global organization is providing women and girls the opportunity to live their dreams.