This year, four Fonda-Fultonville High School students have been accepted into the St. Mary’s Healthcare System’s HELP Grant Program – a five-year program that helps secure employment for students who plan to pursue a career in healthcare. This year, juniors Gianna Ciaccio and Aiden Glode, along with seniors Kayla Gulick and Mackenzi Dowgielwicz, were accepted into the program.
Students who are accepted into the program will have their college education funded by the grant, and once they complete their degree, they will work with St. Mary’s Healthcare System for a continuous period of three years.
The impact of the program has not been lost on our students: “There’s no way I could turn this down. I’ll never be as fortunate to have an opportunity like this to start my career in healthcare,” shared senior Kayla Gulick. “I’m excited to be accepted into the HELP Grant Program, and I look forward to the experiences that I’ll gain through it.”
Through the HELP Grant Program, students will have tuition, books, and transportation expenses paid, as well as immediate access to career planning and mentorship in their areas of study.
“The HELP grant is a great opportunity to complete college without any debt. It is really amazing. I’m grateful to the St. Mary’s Healthcare System for offering this opportunity,“ said junior Gianna Ciaccio.
The purpose of the HELP Grant Program is to place qualified candidates within healthcare roles. Across the United States, there is a projected shortage of healthcare and nursing staff, and identifying qualified healthcare workers is important for the wellness and immediate care of communities.
“We are excited to have an opportunity like the HELP Grant Program, which shares a blueprint for our students to pursue careers in healthcare,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard DeMallie. “This opportunity not only assists with covering tuition expenses but also provides our community with local residents to lend assistance to those in need. It’s a win-win for the region.”