To the Editor:

The Portage County Hunger & Poverty Prevention Partnership (PCHPPP) is proud to offer two $500 scholarships annually to qualifying Portage County high school seniors.

The PCHPPP was formed in October 2000, after the first Portage County Hunger Summit. Over the years, the Partnership has grown and added project teams to help address and solve hunger and poverty issues that face Portage County.

The Empty Bowls team raises community awareness and funds that support hunger and poverty issues in Portage County and makes the Patrick J. Cassidy Scholarship possible.

The scholarship is named after Cassidy, a community volunteer who exemplified community service as part of the original Hunger Prevention Partnership and Empty Bowls committees.

Selection of the winners is based on applicants’ academic achievements, volunteer service record, work experiences, personal essay, references and financial need.

Application forms and requirements can be found in local high school guidance offices or online at www.hppp-pc.org. Applications are due by March 1.

Other PCHPPP teams include Mobile Pantry, Giving Gardens/Plant a Row, social media, community education and awareness/legislative, community grants, scholarships and the Inclusive Team.

Volunteer members of PCHPPP come from a variety of private and public sectors. New members are always welcome and can reach us at our website or by email at [email protected]

Mary Kampschoer

Scholarship Committee chair