Donations are still needed to help fund a new scholarship program that will assist local residents in furthering their education right here in Perry.

Started by Perry Economic Development, the Perry Promise program aims to raise $100,000 to financially assist DMACC Perry Van Kirk Career Academy students.

“Perry Promise provides a $99 per credit hour charge, where the normal credit hour charge is is $136.  We did this because of the particular needs that we do have in Perry” says Perry Economic Development vice presidents Bill Clark.

Clark says times can be tough for families and this scholarship helps make it possible for teens and adults to further their education.

“We realize education can shape a person’s future and we also realize sometimes the economic situation in the family ties the children and ties the parents to their own family needs.  We want to make it possible so that not only can families continue to have their needs met but let the young people and adults advance in education on a college basis” says Clark.

And it doesn’t matter how much you’re able to contribute.

“Every gift counts.  So we’ve had gifts as small as $10 and as high as $10,000 so we’re asking people, whatever they can help us with, that will help us reach our goal.”

Anyone wanting more information on the program or how to donate can contact Jenny Foster at 428-8120.