COLLEGE IS WITHIN REACH! APPLY FOR UP TO $5,000 IN TUITION SUPPORT
The 2025 CEDA Scholarship Program is here to help you take the next step in your academic journey—without the weight of financial stress.
Starting April 11, 2025, eligible students in suburban Cook County can apply for a scholarship of up to $5,000 to support tuition and fees for accredited Illinois colleges or universities. Whether you’re a high school senior, returning adult learner, or a non-traditional student, this scholarship can help bridge the gap between where you are and where you’re going.
Who Should Apply?
- Suburban Cook County residents
- Students pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Illinois
- Households at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- First-generation students, working adults, and underrepresented learners encouraged to apply
Applications open April 11, 2025 and must be submitted by June 20, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Submit your completed application by mail or hand delivery to:
CEDA of Cook County, Inc.
ATTN: 2025 CSBG Scholarship Program
53 E. 154th St., Harvey, IL 60426
Questions? Contact [email protected] or (312) 259-4237
Struggling with Rent or Car Repairs? FsACE Can Help You Stay on Track
The Barrier Reduction Program (BRP) supports SNAP participants in suburban Cook County by helping remove financial roadblocks that threaten employment and stability.
Whether you’re behind on rent or facing unexpected auto repair costs, BRP offers targeted assistance to help you maintain your momentum toward self-sufficiency.
Program Benefits:
- Up to $2,000 per household for overdue rent, deposits, or current payment
- Up to $1,400 per household for essential auto repairs to keep you mobile and employed
- Referrals to other supportive FsACE programs like Vision, Dental, Trade Skills, and Youth Employment
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must live in Suburban Cook County
- Currently employed, job-seeking, or in vocational training
- Must be receiving SNAP, recently applied, or within 9 months of benefit expiration
- Income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
Act Now — This program ends May 15, 2025, or when funds run out!
Call (312) 795-8948 to check eligibility and pre-apply.
The 2025 Summer Youth Employment Program is Now Accepting Applications!
The 2025 Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) application is NOW OPEN!
Calling all young job seekers (ages 16–24) in Suburban Cook County—your future starts today.
This summer, earn $16/hour, gain real-world experience, and build skills that jumpstart your career. SYEP offers paid job placements, mentorship, and career-building opportunities that make a difference.
Download your application below and take the first step toward a productive, paid summer!
For more info or assistance, email [email protected]. Don’t miss out!
Give Your Child an Experience to Remember — Apply for Enrichment Support Today!
The Youth Enrichment Access Program helps families in Suburban Cook County pay for summer camps, after-school programs, arts, sports, and more—because every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and thrive.
Get up to $600 per child, with a maximum of $1,800 per household to support enrichment activities that make a difference.
Whether it’s coding camp, music lessons, dance classes, or soccer practice—financial assistance is available now for qualifying families.
Questions? Email [email protected] or call (312) 795-8948
What is it?
FsACE
FsACE is a “case management” program that looks at your needs and builds you a path toward self-sufficiency.
How does it help?
- DENTAL AND VISION services, like dental exams, eye exams, and glasses.
- TRANSPORTATION HELP with car repairs, bus cards, and gas cards
- SCHOLARSHIPS for post-secondary education available starting 9/15/2023.
- JOB PREP & COUNSELING including vocational training and job placement.
- FRESH PRODUCE and nutrition education.
- ADDITIONAL FUNDS for your unique needs, like beds, replacement IDs, GED fees, and beyond.
Do I qualify?
To qualify for all FsACE services, you must live in suburban Cook County and meet the NEW, EXPANDED income guidelines.
| INCOME GUIDELINES (Gross Income) | ||
| Household Size | 30-Day | Annual |
| 1 | $2,608 | $31,300 |
| 2 | $3,525 | $42,300 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $53,300 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $64,300 |
| 5 | $6,275 | $75,300 |
| 6 | $7,192 | $86,300 |
| 7 | $8,108 | $97,300 |
| 8 | $9,025 | $108,300 |
To qualify for Employment Barrier Reduction Program benefits, you need to be employed, seeking employment, or enrolled in an employment/vocational training program and:
- Get SNAP benefits or part of an active SNAP household
- Were removed from SNAP due to benefit time limits within the past 9 months and
are an able-bodied adult without dependents
