Single parents across Arkansas have a powerful ally in their corner as the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund opens applications for the Spring 2026 semester, offering hope and practical support to families working toward brighter futures.

The numbers tell an inspiring story of growth and commitment. In 2025, ASPSF awarded an impressive $1.9 million in scholarships to more than 1,300 single parents across 69 Arkansas counties and Bowie County, Texas. That's a remarkable jump from 832 scholarships totaling $1.2 million in 2024, showing how this program is expanding its reach and touching more lives every year.

Right here in Baxter County, 31 single parents received scholarships totaling $38,600, including Patrice Proffett, who is pursuing her nursing degree at Arkansas State University in Mountain Home. Her words capture the heart of what these scholarships mean: "This scholarship means so much to me. Not only as financial assistance but as a reminder that there are people who truly believe in single parents like myself. This scholarship lightens the load and allows me to focus more on my education and my children's future."

What makes ASPSF especially meaningful is how the scholarships work. Awards ranging from $400 to $1,600 go directly to recipients, giving them the flexibility to cover essential needs like rent, childcare, gas, utilities, and school supplies. It's a recognition that supporting education means supporting the whole person and their family.

The Ripple Effect

The beauty of ASPSF extends far beyond the financial awards. The organization has created a nurturing support network where student parents can connect with staff, volunteers, and mentors who genuinely care about their success. Through career guidance and confidence-building workshops, participants gain skills and encouragement that will serve them throughout their lives.

These scholarships represent something profound: they're investments in entire families. When a single parent earns a degree or professional certificate, they're opening doors to stable, family-supporting careers that will benefit their children and future generations. The ripple effects of one scholarship can transform a family's trajectory for decades to come.

The program welcomes single mothers and fathers who hold a high school diploma or GED and haven't yet earned a bachelor's degree. Students need to be enrolled in at least one three-credit course, maintain a 2.0 GPA, meet income guidelines, and stay engaged with the program. The warmth and flexibility of both online and in-person options ensure that busy parents can pursue their educational goals.

Applications are due February 1 for the Spring 2026 semester, and the fund accepts applications three times yearly for spring, summer, and fall terms. This ongoing commitment means single parents always have an upcoming opportunity to apply.

The program's remarkable growth is powered by generous donors, organizations, schools, businesses, and foundations who believe education can change lives. Their collective faith in single parents is creating waves of positive change across communities.

Interested applicants can find complete details and apply at aspsf.org/scholarships or contact Jen Lawrence at jlawrence@aspsf.org or 501.550.6304.