NEW BRITAIN, CT – The Robert T. Kenney Scholarship Program at the American Savings Foundation and Wheeler have joined together to pilot a new Scholar Assistance Program. Wheeler’s team has designed the new Scholar Assistance Program to provide additional support to recipients of the Robert T. Kenney Scholarship Program. Modeled after similar programs offered nationally, this is the first Scholar Assistance Program in Connecticut.
“Because most of our Robert T. Kenney Scholars receive this award for all four years of college, we see some of the mental health challenges our scholars face in any given year. This year, we realize that due to Covid, some students are dealing with greater stress than ever,” said Maria Falvo, President & CEO of the American Savings Foundation. “Through Wheeler, this Scholar Assistance Program will give our Scholars access to an incredibly valuable resource for free, if they need to reach out for support.”
“The Scholar Assistance Program will help Robert T. Kenney Scholars with everyday challenges that may include anxiety, depression, relationship or family issues, school-related stress, or other issues requiring additional support. This innovative resource will help scholars to manage their challenges so that they can focus on their academic studies, and other aspects of their lives, and work productively toward their goals,” said Judith Stonger, Vice President of Prevention, Wellness and Recovery at Wheeler.
Through the Scholar Assistance Program, Robert T. Kenney Scholars will have access to:
- Telephone crisis intervention via a toll-free number, 24-hours a day.
- Up to three confidential counseling sessions per issue or event.
- Coordination of services for students referred to treatment beyond the three visits covered through the program.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer this pilot program through our partnership with Wheeler.” said Heather Hokunson, Program Officer at the American Savings Foundation. “We hope that any of our Robert T. Kenney Scholars who could benefit from this extra support will reach out through the confidential Scholar Assistance Program hotline, so that nothing deters them from achieving their dream of a college education.”
Wheeler provides comprehensive solutions that address complex health issues, providing individuals, families and communities with accessible, innovative care that encourages health, recovery, and growth at all stages of life. Wheeler’s integrated approach to primary and behavioral health, education, and recovery creates measurable results, positive outcomes, and hopeful tomorrows for more than 50,000 individuals across Connecticut each year. Learn more: www.wheelerhealth.org.
American Savings Foundation is a permanent charitable endowment which provides grants to local nonprofit organizations, and college scholarships to area students. Now celebrating its 25th Anniversary year, the Foundation has contributed over $64 million in total grants and scholarships in central Connecticut. Throughout their anniversary year, the Foundation will share stories about the people and organizations they have worked with over the past quarter century. Follow on Facebook @AmericanSavingsFoundation. For more information, call 860-827-2556 or visit the Foundation’s website at www.asfdn.org.
Contact:
Maria Falvo
American Savings Foundation
860-827-2556
mfalvo@asfdn.org
Website: www.asfdn.org