2026 First Chance Trust Fund
Funds Pennsylvania school districts to provide scholarships and community-based support for at-risk youth, promoting education and career pathways to reduce dropout and justice involvement.
Funder: Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency
Due Dates: August 11, 2026 (Egrants application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $150,000 per grantee for an initial two-year project; possible extension to five years and up to $300,000 total.
Summary: Supports at-risk youth in high-need Pennsylvania school districts through scholarships and community-based programming to foster educational and career opportunities.
Key Information: Only select school districts listed in Appendix A are eligible; application via PCCD's Egrants system required.
Description
This grant opportunity, administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), aims to provide targeted support for at-risk youth in Pennsylvania regions with high rates of high school dropout, incarceration, or crime. The program funds school districts to deliver blended scholarship initiatives that combine direct financial assistance for post-secondary education, vocational training, or career development with wraparound supports from community-based organizations (CBOs). These supports may include mentoring, counseling, academic assistance, job readiness programs, and other youth-focused services. The overarching goal is to empower students to pursue education or workforce entry, breaking cycles of poverty and involvement with the justice system.
