1) Find out if you meet the eligibility requirements | You must be: -A currently licensed foster parent, relative or non-relative/extended family caregiver with an open case with Alameda County Children and Family Services. -A current, good standing member of the ACFPA. -If your membership is not current or you are not a member, submit a membership application. Scholarships are a member-only benefit. |
| 2) Find out if your child is eligible for a scholarship. | The child must be: -A foster, adopted or biological youth of the licensed caregiver OR -A young adult under 23 years of age, previously in the care of the licensed caregiver, needing assistance with furthering their education or reaching their career goals. -There is a limit of one scholarship per child per year, up to $300 maximum, as funds allow. |
| 3) Identify the specific activity that would be beneficial to your child. | The ACFPA Scholarship programs supplement the cost of: -Extracurricular activities like dance, music, art or swim classes, summer or winter camps. -Tutoring, test preparation classes, study aides. -College application fees, GED preparation and testing, uniforms for trade schools. |
| 4) Identify the specific organization that offers the activity. | -Find the organizations in your area that offer the needed program. -Reach out to the program directly and get all the details you need (e.g. schedule, cost, etc.) -Select the program that is most suitable for the child. |
| 5) Decide when to apply for the scholarship. | -There are set Scholarship periods based on available budget. You can send your application any time during the application period. -If you are requesting a scholarship for a program with a set start date, you have two options: —Time your application so that you will hear back from the Committee before payment is due. —Pay for the program and keep your receipt. If your application is accepted, submit your receipt for reimbursement of the approved amount. Note: With this option, there is a risk that your application may not be approved and that you will not be reimbursed. |
| 6) Complete and submit your application prior to deadline. | -Download and complete a Scholarship Application -Submit your application by mail or email before the application deadline. |
| 7) Submit screenshots of required supplies, as applicable. | If you are requesting a scholarship to supplement the cost of supplies related to an activity (e.g. dance shoes or team uniforms), attach a screenshot of the item and the cost, to your application. |
| 8) Keep an eye on your email and phone for communication from the Scholarship Committee. | A Committee member will reach out if there are any questions about your application.You will receive an email regarding the scholarship decision per the application timeline. |
| 9) Receive your scholarship | If approved for a scholarship, follow the instructions on the letter. Typically, there are two options for receiving your award: -If you already paid for the program or required supplies, send a copy of your receipt, clearly showing your name, what was paid for and the amount, for reimbursement. -If you did not already pay for the program or required supplies, you may be asked to pay and submit your receipts. Alternatively, program costs can be paid directly to the program. |
alamedacountyfosterparentassociation.org 