Campus Grant Helps Students With Child-Care Cost
January 18, 2022
Walters State Community College and Douglas Cherokee Economic Authority have received
a CCampis grant, which will provide the college’s students with something always needed
but seldom available: assistance in paying child-care costs while attending classes.
“The lack of child care prevents many students from pursuing higher education and
it’s also a reason many parents stop attending,” said Roxanne Bowen, counselor and
coordinator of multicultural services. .
“Even though we know that a college degree is one of best ways to improve a family’s
income, we have seen so many students unable to finish that degree because of childcare
needs. These funds will impact not just the recipient, but the community by improving
workforce skills,” Bowen said.
Bowen said the college is very grateful to Douglas Cherokee Economic Authority for
being a community partner in securing and administering the grant. Douglas Cherokee,
an established community-action agency, will document the subsidies provided and maintain
ongoing records.
“We would not have been able to do this without Douglas-Cherokee,” Bowen said.
The CCampis Grant pays up to 60 percent of child care costs. Payments are made directly
to the child care providers, who must be state-approved and licensed. Students will
also receive mentoring services, referral to college and community resources and workshops
designed specifically for student parents.
Current and prospective students can apply for assistance with childcare at
To be eligible, students must have a child in need of care, from infants through after-school
programs. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
and be eligible for a Pell Grant, a form of financial aid based on need. Students
must be enrolled in a degree program and six credit hours a semester. (Six credit
hours usually equal two classes.)
Priority will be given to the following: single parents, veterans, students with the
greatest financial need, full-time students, and students with at least a 2.5 grade
point average. Recipients will be required to attend classes, meet with an academic
advisor and a CCampis specialist and remain in good standing.
If needed, a waiting list will be maintained.