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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 26, 2024
Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167
Scholarship awardee Rebecca Yager of Saginaw encourages donations to transform lives of foster youth
LANSING — As 2024 draws to a close, the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund urges generous Michiganders to act quickly — there are only a few days left to make a year-end donation that directly supports foster youth in pursuing higher education while also making contributors eligible for state and federal tax deductions.
This year, Fostering Futures highlights the success of Rebecca Yager, a scholarship recipient and student at Delta College in Saginaw County. The Bay City Central High School graduate’s inspiring story is a testament to the power of education in shaping futures.
“Being awarded this scholarship has been life-changing,” Yager said. “It’s about more than financial support — it’s about knowing someone believes in your potential. I encourage everyone to donate, not just for the tax break but to give foster youth the opportunity to succeed.”
The scholarship fund, managed by the Michigan Department of Treasury, has supported hundreds of students like Yager, covering expenses such as tuition, housing and textbooks.
At any given time, there are approximately 9,500 children in foster care in Michigan who upon reaching adulthood often lack adequate resources to pursue their educational dreams. Former foster youth face significant barriers to education, with only 3% nationwide achieving a college degree. The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is committed to changing that statistic.
“Your donation does more than provide financial aid — it offers foster youth a chance to dream big and achieve their goals,” said Diane Brewer, executive director of the Michigan Education Trust (MET). “Every contribution helps change lives and builds a brighter future for these deserving young individuals.”
Since its inception in 2012, the program has awarded more than $1.4 million in scholarships, funded entirely through community donations, sponsorships and events.
Contributions made by Dec. 31 will not only be eligible for state and federal tax breaks for the current tax year but also will have a direct impact in 2025 by ensuring that more of Michigan’s foster youth have access to the education they deserve. Fostering Futures scholarships now include attendance at any Michigan degree-granting college or university.
To apply or learn more about the Fostering Futures Scholarship, go to http://www.FosteringFutures-mi.com/ or call toll-free at 888-4-GRANTS (888-447-2687).
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