Why is this done: An objective of the LRAF is to support educational  opportunities for women. The cost of college textbooks and the burden it places on working poor women is a great concern and is often not addressed by conventional funding assistance programs; yet it should be. As an example, students pursuing an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Camden County College will pay an average $74 a book for each of 22 required courses;  more than $1,600 in total. Many non-traditional students, single women who work and support a household, do not receive full financial aid and must pay for textbooks; quite often this means a choice between taking a course or buying a household necessity. No one who is trying to improve their life should have to make that choice.

How Does It Work:  Qualified students at participating colleges are eligible to receive grants averaging $250 a semester for course related textbooks. Grants are disbursed to recipients through accounts in the college bookstore established for book purchases. 

Where is the LRAF program in place: The LRAF launched the scholarship program in Spring, 2003 with a multiyear commitment at Rowan University, New Jersey. The program is in place at Burlington County College, Camden County College, Cumberland County College, Gloucester County College and Salem Community College.