For Those Who Gave Their Lives, We Will Aid Their Children

On June 29th, I introduced ‘Children of Fallen Soldiers Pell Grant Act of 2006’ along with Congressman Don Young and six other original co-sponsors to provide educational opportunities and access to higher education for young people who have lost a parent or guardian as a result of the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The ‘Children of Fallen Soldiers Pell Grant Act of 2006’ provides financial assistance for higher education by waiving the income eligibility requirements on Pell Grant applications. By waiving this requirement, children of fallen soldiers will be able to receive a maximum Pell Grant award not to exceed the amount of their tuition.

It is estimated that there are currently over 1,600 children who lost a parent as a result of the Iraqi War. These young people will continue to pay the price of protecting America with the lifetime absence of a parent. For those children, this bill holds the promise of opportunity and new dreams that could make a world of difference.

Through this Pell Grant award we can offer a chance for a bright future for the children of those who gave their lives in the name of service for our country.