From its re-launch in late 2016 through 2023, ACFPA’s scholarship fund has awarded over $35,000 to 146 Alameda County families to supplement the cost of enrichment and academic activities for kids in care. Kids who were awarded scholarships have enjoyed summer and winter camps, swim lessons, gymnastics classes, choir, dance, soccer, martial arts and have used the scholarships to pay for tutoring for academic support.
There is no doubt that extracurricular activities are beneficial for all kids but they are critical for foster kids. According to the Youth Law Center, extracurricular activities can ensure healthy development by building resilience, improving self-efficacy, developing a positive self-identity and counteracting the harmful effects of trauma. Additionally, they can promote positive relationships, leading to improved placement stability.
Since cost can be a barrier to participating in these activities, the ACFPA scholarships are a good resource for caregivers. Please visit our Fundraising page and help ACFPA grow its scholarship programs and reach more kids and families.
If you are an ACFPA member/caregiver, please consider taking advantage of the ACFPA scholarship program to support the kids in your care. It is easy to apply and this step by step checklist can walk you through the process.
alamedacountyfosterparentassociation.org 