A Commitment to Learning

July 12, 2022 at 1:54pm in Community, Headlines, Our Stories, Public Housing

For 22 years, Alaska Housing has been helping individuals grow and thrive through its Education Scholarships. Developed as a way to help families invest in themselves, AHFC has distributed 219 Education Scholarships totaling $222,955 since the program began.

Eligibility for AHFC Education Scholarships includes any adult or high school senior living in an assisted rental unit owned by AHFC or receiving assistance through a Housing Choice Voucher. High school seniors must demonstrate that they plan to extend their education immediately after graduation. Schools must be located within Alaska and funds may be applied to tuition, books, and activities related to the student’s education.

AHFC Educational Scholarships can provide as much as $2,500 per person. Recipients may receive aid twice, however years do not have to be consecutive. Alaska Housing is able to offer the full amount to 10 individuals per year. On average, 30 applications per year are submitted.

Benefiting Communities

“I see first-hand the immediate impact that AHFC’s Education Scholarships have in our community,” says Amanda Manning, resident services manager, public housing at AHFC. “They help recipients set goals, define a career path, and become economically independent with increased employment opportunities.”

For scholarship recipients such as Phillip, the opportunity has led to career options that would not have previously existed.

"I depend on my academic success to achieve financial growth and responsibility. My experiences (in college) have enhanced my leadership and professional skills."

-Phillip, Education Scholarship recipient

Statewide Reach

In 2022, Education Scholarships were distributed to recipients in 14 of 16 AHFC service communities, covering the state from Petersburg to North Pole, Bethel to Palmer. Scholarships can be used at post-secondary education institutions, vocational schools, or for pre-approved certification and training recognized by:

Supporting Education Initiatives

The Education Scholarships are one example of several initiatives supporting education that Alaska Housing offers public housing participants. Moving to Work and Jumpstart offer a range of participation incentives to help people extend their education and become financially independent.

Recipients participating in multiple AHFC public housing programs may qualify to combine education scholarships and incentives. For example, a participant could be eligible to receive up to two AHFC Education Scholarships, and potentially add tuition assistance from a program such as Jumpstart.

“This program offers public housing participants the opportunity to truly move forward and make life-changing decisions to improve their future,” says Manning. “That is a win for all involved.”

Learn more about Alaska Housing's Education Scholarship here. You can also find out more about Jumpstart here as well as other resources AHFC offers.