2020 Coast Guard Spouse Scholarships and Grants
Through our 2020 spouse scholarship and grant program, we awarded 265 awards for a total of $147,500 in support to deserving Coast Guard spouses, who are enrolled in degree-seeking programs and professional certification activities.
Since the spouse grant program launched in 2011, we’ve awarded more than 1,100 grants, totaling more than $500,000 in support. We’re excited to reach these milestones, but really, we’re just getting started. We know that a strong spouse equates to a strong family, and we’re working hard to grow this program every year. We thank our generous supporters who believe in this program and continue to invest in this critical initiative.
Let’s take a look at the impact of these awards beyond the numbers.
Delta Dental Partnership: Through the generosity of Delta Dental, we awarded ten $2,000 scholarships to Coast Guard spouses enrolled in dental and healthcare programs. For all of this year’s Delta Dental scholars, the often prohibitive cost of college can limit their ability to complete their degree programs on time. And dental and healthcare programs have added labs and practicum classes, which add to the upfront cost of a degree.
“With the help of the Coast Guard Foundation and Delta Dental, I get to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. Being a Coast Guard wife, we travel every so many years, so having the career of a nurse gives me the opportunity to adapt. I look forward to being an excellent nurse and know that I would not have completed my academic endeavors without the help of the Coast Guard Foundation. Thank you again for the opportunity to make my dreams come true.” Amanda Blackall, Florida
Coast Guard Foundation Spouse Grants: The balance of our support for Coast Guard spouses is $500 grants, and we awarded 255 of these grants this year. More than half of our spouse grants support spouses who are pursuing degrees in healthcare fields, with the majority of those studying to become nurses. Coast Guard spouses are active across all industries, actually, with many teachers, business majors, and other professions.
“The Coast Guard Foundation has played a large role in all of my education endeavors since I became a Coast Guard spouse. I have received an associates in Nursing, bachelors of Nursing, and most recently, I have obtained my personal trainer certification. Each degree and certification has played a large role in my ability to find employment with each PCS.” Tiffany Locker, Hawaii
Now, more than ever, our investment in the Coast Guard family boosts their financial stability in these uncertain times. When we help Coast Guard spouses earn their degrees, they can seek employment that strengthens their families’ well-being, and give back to their local communities in meaningful ways.
