Imagine hearing the stories and seeing the effects of poverty on a daily basis. This is the experience of employees of Polk County Department of Social Services all through the day.

Understanding what a huge difference an education can make, Polk DSS employees have established a scholarship fund to encourage our families to see past their current challenges and to look toward achieving the future they envision! Cooperating and collaborating together, DSS employees have raised $100 for the first scholarship. The scholarship will be awarded to a Polk County resident enrolled and participating in an undergraduate or continuing education program.

Although the first scholarship is not a huge amount, the hope is that it will help lessen the burden of supplemental costs of securing an education for items such as a textbook, school supplies, uniforms and/or equipment. lt is also hoped that the recipient will understand that DSS employees care about them as individual citizens, wanting them to succeed and to thrive, not just survive!

To apply for the scholarship, please submit in writing the following information:

• Your name, phone number and address

• A brief summary of how this scholarship will help with your educational plans

• Proof of Enrollment in an undergraduate or continuing education program

The application should be submitted by July 31 to: Calan Halford, IMS 11, Polk County Department of Social Services, 231 Wolverine Trail, Mill Spring, NC 28756.

– article submitted by Lou Parton