Press Release
The SouthCoast Community Foundation (SCCF) is accepting applications for its 2027 scholarship program, with more than 65 scholarships totaling over $900,000 available to students in Southeastern Mass. who are pursuing higher education and career training. Applications are open through January 11, 2027.
Thanks to the generosity of local donors, SCCF awarded more than $900,000 in scholarships to over 120 students in 2026. The program focuses on expanding access to higher education, with particular attention to first- and second-generation college students and students already enrolled in college. Since its inception in 1995, the Foundation has distributed over $68 million in grants and $6.2 million in scholarships.
Scholarships support a range of educational paths, including two- and four-year degrees, vocational and technical education, certificate programs, and workforce training. Graduating high school seniors, technical certificate/trade school students, and current college students are encouraged to explore available opportunities. Eligibility varies by scholarship.
The Foundation serves 41 cities and towns across southeastern Massachusetts, including Attleboro, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, New Bedford, Plymouth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Wareham, and Westport. Students and families can visit southcoastcf.org for the full list of communities served and review individual scholarship descriptions at southcoastcf.org/2027scholarships for eligibility requirements.
Most scholarships are available through SCCF’s Universal Application, which matches applicants with scholarships for which they may be eligible. This year, the Foundation has refined the application to tailor questions to different types of applicants, making the process more relevant and easier to navigate for students with varied educational and life experiences. Some scholarships require separate applications.
Application Guidance and Virtual Q&A Sessions
Students and families can find application instructions and resources at southcoastcf.org/receive/apply-for-scholarships. SCCF will also host three optional virtual drop-in Q&A sessions to answer questions and provide guidance:
• Tuesday, 11/17, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
• Thursday, 12/17, 4:30–5:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, 1/5/27, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Participants may join for as long as their schedules allow. Session registration links are available on the scholarship webpage. Questions may also be directed to scholarships@southcoastcf.org. Explore scholarship opportunities at southcoastcf.org/2027scholarships and access the application at southcoastcf.org/receive/apply-for-scholarships/. The application deadline is Jan. 11, 2027.
Help Local Students Take Their Next Step
The Foundation’s scholarship program continues to be a significant investment in regional prosperity, helping students pursue college degrees, workforce training, and other educational pathways while strengthening the future of Southeastern Massachusetts. There are many ways to support the educational pursuits of local students and young adults through the SouthCoast Community Foundation. Whether you choose to make a gift to the Partners in Education Fund or establish your own scholarship fund, supporting a student’s educational journey has never been easier. A donation of any amount to the Partners in Education Fund can be made online at https://tinyurl.com/2xusuyrv or by mailing a contribution to SCCF. If you are interested in creating a scholarship fund tailored to your charitable goals, please contact Chief Advancement Officer Jess Haas at jhaas@southcoastcf.org.
About SouthCoast Community Foundation
The SouthCoast Community Foundation is a public charity dedicated to uniting people, organizations, and resources to strengthen communities across southeastern Massachusetts. Serving 41 cities and towns, the Foundation connects donors’ charitable goals with community needs through grantmaking, scholarships, and regional partnerships. Founded in 1995, SCCF is located at 350 Union Street in New Bedford. Learn more at southcoastcf.org.
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