IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

September 5, 2024 

CONTACT: 
Brian Berg (312.743.2031) 

City of Chicago Department of Family Services and Support Extends 2024 Scholarship Program Application Deadline

for Full-Time Students Enrolled in Continuing Education Programs

The City of Chicago Department of Family Services and Support (DFSS) is continuing to accept applications for the 2024 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Scholarship Program in partnership with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity until Friday, September 20. This program will award $230,000 in scholarships to eligible full-time students enrolled in continuing education or vocational training programs for the upcoming fall term. The scholarships are intended to cover expenses such as tuition, books, and other related educational costs as confirmed by the institution. 

“DFSS is excited to offer the 2024 CSBG Scholarships as the cost of higher education can preclude so many young people from fulfilling their dreams,” said Brandie Knazze, Commissioner of DFSS. “This financial support will provide young adults with access to higher education and opportunities for developing their skills and interests to put them on a path to continued scholastic achievement,” added Commissioner Knazze.  

DFSS has established scholarships, supported by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. These scholarships are exclusively available to full-time students enrolled in a college, university, or vocational training program during the fall semester of 2024. 

To be eligible for this one-time scholarship, students must meet the following criteria: 

• Reside in the City of Chicago
• Satisfy the program's income requirements 
• Earned a high school diploma or its equivalent
• Be enrolled full-time at an accredited post-secondary or vocational institution in the state of Illinois with verification provided by the institution.

For assistance with the application process and additional program information about the 2024 CBSG Scholarship Program, please send an email to DSScsbgscholarship@cityofchicago.org.

To apply to the CSBG scholarship program and to learn about the income eligibility requirements, visit http://chicago.gov/fss/scholarship. Completed applications are now due Friday, September 20th at 5pm CDT. 

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