I'm looking for scholarships available in Alabama specifically for students who have lost a parent. Are there any programs or organizations that offer financial assistance to help with college costs in these situations?
Alabama has several scholarship programs available to students who have experienced the loss of a parent. Here are a couple that you might find helpful:
1. The Kids’ Chance of Alabama awards the "Kids’ Chance Scholarship" to students who have had a parent severely injured or killed in a workplace accident. While these circumstances might not apply to every student who lost a parent, it's a good resource if it fits your situation.
2. The Alabama G.I. Dependents' Scholarship Program offers educational benefits to dependents (spouse and children) of disabled veterans (living or deceased following a service-connected disability) or MIA/POW veterans. While this scholarship is military-specific, it is a significant resource for those who qualify.
Remember to check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship before applying. You might also find it useful to look at national scholarships like the "Life Lessons Scholarship Program" by Life Happens which is designed for college students and college-bound high school seniors who have experienced the death of a parent or legal guardian.
Also, don't forget to fill out the FAFSA for federal and state aid. The Student Aid Index (SAI) determines your need-based aid, and it might be adjusted based on your family situation, potentially increasing your eligible aid amount.
Keep an eye on local community, religious, and civic organizations as well. Many of them offer scholarships, some of which are aimed specifically at individuals who have faced adversity, like the loss of a parent. Best of luck in your search!
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