Since 2007, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has provided scholarships through the LAFD Scholarship Fund (LAFDSF) to the children of current, permanently disabled, or fallen LAFD firefighters.
These scholarships are merit-based and awarded to students who have shown excellence in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities.
According to LAFD, approximately 45 applicants compete annually for the LAFDSF Merit Scholar Competition.
Out of these, eight finalists are chosen, with four receiving $7,500 grants each.
The four Merit Scholar winners receive up to $40,000.
The awards are funded by the Jean Perkins Foundation.
The LAFDSF Merit Scholar Competition evaluates applicants on several criteria, including academic performance, leadership qualities, and achievements in extracurricular activities.
These factors are essential in identifying the top candidates from the pool of applicants.
Each year, LAFD employees and their families look forward to the scholarship announcements.
With about 3,500 LAFD employees, the competition remains highly competitive, highlighting the exceptional talents of the participants.
The scholarships are made possible through the generosity of the Jean Perkins Foundation.
This foundation has been instrumental in providing the financial resources needed to support the LAFDSF Merit Scholar Awards.
The foundation’s commitment ensures that deserving students receive the financial support required for their educational pursuits.
The cash grants awarded to the Merit Scholar winners can significantly impact their academic journey, allowing them to focus on their studies without the added burden of financial stress.
