PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Citizens Bank the United Negro College Fund recently announced the establishment of the first-ever Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship to build accessible pathways, while providing opportunities of cultural awareness, understanding and leadership nationally for high school students who are pursing postsecondary education.

The program provides $50,000 in scholarship funds to 10 high school students entering a two or a four-year accredited college, university or trade school in the fall of 2024, ensuring students have the proper resources and knowledge to help them thrive and reach their full potential. Students must also have a grade point average of at least 2.75.

“Coming together with UNCF to launch the Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship allows us to accelerate our commitment in building a more inclusive future to meet the ever-changing needs of our young people,” said Yvette Vargas, executive vice president at Citizens. “We are delighted to invest into the next generation of students by providing access to education, which fuels continuous learning, skills development and professional aspirations.”

The ongoing partnership between Citizens and UNCF has provided value beyond the scholarship, with key investments, mentorship and workforce development initiatives for students from historically black colleges and universities.

“As UNCF embarks on its next 80 years of impact, partnerships like Citizens and UNCF to establish the Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship are so vital to ensuring more deserving high school seniors have access to the necessary tools and resources needed to get to and through college,” said Arleaya Martin, area director of UNCF New England.

The Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship was established to make postsecondary education accessible for all students, especially those in low-income and underrepresented communities. With the right skills, individuals can gain employment to fill critical roles and earn a livable wage and achieve financial stability.

The scholarship application is now open and students are encouraged to apply by midnight on May 13.

Anyone with questions should contact Lester Booker, Jr. at 248-675-7020 or via email at lester.a.bookerjr@citizensbank.com.