50 Public Housing Students Receive over $300,000 for College

NORWALK, CT, October 19, 2022 / NORWALKHA.ORG --

The Norwalk Housing Foundation announced its largest year ever in both the number and amount of scholarships, awarding $302,000 to 50 public housing students for college. Since its start in 1998, the Foundation has given over $3 million to qualified students who pursue higher education. The awards range from $1,000 to $15,000 and will help both high school seniors entering college as well as existing students complete their education.
This year's students are enrolled at a variety of schools including Howard University, Pratt Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, UConn, Central, Eastern, and Western CSUs. They are pursuing a full range of studies including nursing, communications, robotics and business.
The Scholarship fund is supported by donations from individuals, foundations and businesses who believe in the power of education to break the cycle of poverty. "We could not be prouder of all the students who have chosen to continue their education," said Adam Bovilsky, Executive Director of the Norwalk Housing Authority. He added, "This milestone in the size and number of awards would not have been possible without the support of the entire community."
Although scholarships are given only to Norwalk public housing students, it's still a competitive process. The Scholarship Committee identifies potential applicants by working closely with counselors and administration at all three public high schools in Norwalk-Brien McMahon, Norwalk High and P-TECH. Students with an interest in going to a 2-year, 4-year, technical or graduate school complete the formal application process which includes endorsements from teachers and an in-person interview. Once in the Program, their progress is tracked and guidance is given as needed. As a result, graduation rates among these students exceed statewide averages by more than 60%.
According to Harry Carey, Scholarship Committee Chair, "As the first in their families to attend college, our students face a host of challenges, but their motivation to earn their degree is strong. They know that higher education is the way up - and out of public housing. As a mother said to me, 'It's your attitude - not your address - that matters most."
The Norwalk Housing Foundation believes higher education can end the cycle of poverty for low-income public housing youth. Broader skills and experience will enable them to compete successfully and gain well-paying employment in Connecticut's highly educated and competitive workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, college graduates earn 65% more than high school graduates. This amounts to lifetime earnings of $900,000 more, with the added opportunities that post-secondary school education brings. The EnVision Center, Learning Center and Scholarship Fund provide education support to children and adults within the public housing community.

Norwalk Housing Authority online: http://www.norwalkha.org
For additional information contact:
Linda Rolle
Norwalk Housing Foundation
Email: Lrolle@norwalkha.org
Tel: 203.838.8471 x845