A woman sits at a table, smiling as she reads papers in her hand. An open laptop, notebook, and mug are in front of her. She appears to be studying for SUNY Niagara at Night: Flexible Learning Options for Busy Schedules in a cozy, well-lit room.

Find Funding

Although registration into our Workforce Development programs does require payment up front, we recognize that this can pose a challenge to many students and community members looking to better themselves and advance professionally. There are funding opportunities available within the community. Below are some of the agencies we have worked with over the years.  Additionally, we always suggest that if you are involved in a community organization or receive services of any kind, please inquire on any grants or tuition rebates they may have. 

EMPLOYERS AND UNIONS

If you are currently working, please speak with your employer or union representative regarding educational grants or scholarships.  We have worked with both employers and unions who will guarantee the funding up front, pay for it, or refund the student following successful completion.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

We have worked with community organizations such as the Niagara Falls Housing Authority who have funds available for those living within a specified area or community.  Grants can cover tuition and at times the supplies needed for the class. Please reach out to your local organization and inquire if they have anything available for continuing education.

NIAGARA COUNTY EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

Provides funding that does not have to be repaid as well as job placement assistance. Programs do need to meet grant guidelines to qualify.  For more information, visit please visit the Worksource 1 webpage.

ACCES-VR

ACCES-VR assists individuals with disabilities to achieve and maintain employment and to support independent living through training, education, rehabilitation, and career development. For more information, visit the ACCES-VR webpage.

BUFFALO FUTURES

Services the youth of Niagara and Erie Counties with education funding and career planning.  If you are between the ages of 16-24, you may qualify for funding and should create an account at Buffalo Futures.  After you complete your online profile, you will be paired with a career counselor who will help you explore your educational and career paths.  Our programs accept funding if you qualify for their services.

NATIVE AMERICAN COMMUNITY SERVICES OF ERIE & NIAGARA COUNTIES, INC. (WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM)

You must be an enrolled member of a Native American Tribe/Nation or a descendant of an enrolled member for funding assistance.

You can also find out more online via www.nacswny.org , or please contact Solomon Joseph at sjoseph@nacswny.org for more details.

PATHSTONE CORPORATION

A non-profit organization that helps low-income farmworkers and their families improve their living standards through educational programs, employment services, and support services to help them get better jobs and wages. PathStone can help you obtain your GED and provide funding for educational programs and/or supplies of up to $5,000. They can also assist with food emergencies, rental emergencies, and clothes and transportation for work.

You may qualify for PathStone’s assistance if:

  • You are or have been a farmworker in the last 2 years or your parents worked in farm work in the last 2 years (parents can be undocumented).
  • You must also meet certain enrollment and income eligibility to qualify. Note that Fidelis Healthcare or any form of government financial assistance may qualify you.

For more information, contact:

Lezly Rosario Alvarado
Phone: 585-820-7486
Email:  lrosario@pathstone.org

A woman with wavy brown hair, wearing a green top and black cardigan, smiles at the camera. The background is blue with curved, wavy patterns.

Contact

  • Maryjo Erway
A woman with wavy brown hair, wearing a green top and black cardigan, smiles at the camera. The background is blue with curved, wavy patterns.