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Foster student describes how Foster Independence Grant enabled college enrollment
Summary
A former foster youth said the Foster Independence Grant (FIG) allowed her to enroll and focus on school; she urged continued support and noted she was no longer eligible at age 27 and that the program had helped hundreds of foster students in Minnesota.
Vivian Dudley, identified to the committee as a state government coordinator with Foster Advocates, described how the Foster Independence Grant (FIG) enabled her to enroll in college and pursue a social work degree.
Dudley said she completed an associate degree at Saint Paul College and began studies at the College of Saint Catherine (St. Kate's). “Without FIG without the gift of FIG, I would not be in front of you today,” she told the committee, and she described paying a $300 enrollment deposit when she first enrolled and relying on FIG funds to cover housing and basic needs while studying.
Dudley said FIG allowed her to reduce work hours, focus on classes and build a budget. She told the committee that she received a FIG award of $11,000 two years earlier and said the program has helped “679 students, other fosters in Minnesota who have also benefited.” She also said she was 27 and no longer eligible for FIG and told senators that the expiration of eligibility was an ongoing concern as she continues toward a bachelor’s degree and a career in social work.
Committee members thanked Dudley for her testimony and asked questions about her education and career plans; no formal action was recorded during her testimony.
