Because of the economic hardships, paying for higher education has become increasingly challenging. However, many organizations across the country provide annual scholarship programs, which can help students currently enrolled in various degree programs cover costs that include tuition, housing, books and fees.
A total of 13 students have been named the recipients of this year's Wal-Mart Foundation Communities In Schools Scholarship Program, which provided the winners with financial assistance ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 each. The two groups launched this opportunity to encourage students who have faced economic challenges to continue their education.
The program recognizes individuals who are committed to furthering their education, and are in need of funding in order to enroll in postsecondary institutions. Winners were selected based on academic achievement, leadership skills and financial circumstances.
Because of a two-year grant from the Wal-Mart Foundation totaling $120,000, Communities In Schools, which is a dropout prevention organization, was able to give these scholarships.
"Through this grant, we are pleased to have the funds available to help these students pursue a higher education that otherwise may not have been available to them," said Joseph Santucci, a member of the Communities In Schools Leadership Council. 
