CONGRESSMAN COSTA ANNOUNCES FEDERAL GRANTS AWARDED TO THE DISTRICT
Washington, D.C. -Today, Congressman Jim Costa (CA-20) announced federaleducation grants awarded to California's20th Congressional District.
"Iwould like to congratulate the schools on receiving these grants and thank themfor their service to the Central Valley,"Congressman Costa said.
CaliforniaState University of Fresno, California State University of Bakersfield,Fresno CityCollege and West Hills Community College will all receivefederal funding under TRIO Student Support Services Program. TRIO refers to three education programs;Upward Bound, Talent Search and Student Support Services. Several additional programs have been addedover the years.
TheStudent Support Services Program provides grants to institutions of highereducation. The funding is awarded toprograms that work to the increase the retention and graduation rates oflow-income and first generation college students. Projects under this program include activitiesdesigned to acquaint students with a range of available career options, mentoringprograms and assistance in securing admission and financial aid for graduateand professional programs.
CaliforniaState University of Fresno and California State University of Bakersfield will each receive approximately $280,000,which will allow them to serve 200 and 250 students respectively. WestHills CommunityCollege will receive approximately $285,000 andwill be able to serve 400 students with this funding. FresnoCity Collegewill receive approximately $235,000 which will allow them to serve 160students.
"TRIOis a great program that benefits many students in the CentralValley. Unfortunately, the President'sproposed budget reduces funding for this important education program," Costastated.