Peoria Standard

Rep. Travis Weaver shared information on a scholarship program for current or former youths in DCFS care in a Facebook post on Mar. 7.

“Current and former youth in care, apply NOW for the Illinois DCFS 2023 Scholarship Program!" Weaver wrote. "53 scholarships will be awarded, including four to children of veterans. Recipients receive tuition and academic fee waivers to be used at participating Illinois community colleges and universities, a monthly grant to offset other expenses, and a medical card. The application deadline is March 31, 2023.”

Born and raised in Peoria County, Weaver is the State Representative for the 93rd House District. He currently resides in Edwards. After attending the University of Alabama, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Marketing. He continued to receive his master's degree in Business Administration from Northwestern University.

Weaver's has an accomplished education at the university level and his Facebook post encourage others to pursue scholarships to do the same. His message entails scholarship information from the Illinois Department of Children and Families.

According to DCFS, more than 50 scholarships are awarded every year. They will potentially cover tuition, books and additional supplies.

“The scholarship package includes a full tuition and mandatory fee waiver to any community college, university or college maintained by the State of Illinois, a monthly grant payment, start-up grant, and a medical card," the DCFS memo stated.

"The Department may pay for required textbooks and supplies for youth that do not have sufficient resources to purchase the required items.”

There are requirements to receive the scholarship. When filling out the application there is a checklist to abide by.

The application package requires: A filled-out Scholarship Application (CFS 438, Rev 1/2023) Including a Typed Personal Essay; High School Transcript or GED Test Score Report; College Transcript (if attending college); 3 reference letters from non-relatives and the application must be signed by the applicant.

Applications for the DCFS 2023 Scholarship Program are open now for current and former youth in care. Apply by March 31, 2023.

Potential applicants can get the application here.