BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—First Federal Community Bank (FFCB) announced the opening of its annual Community Bestowment Award applications, a program designed to support local high school seniors regardless of whether they choose a collegiate or vocational path.
The application window opens Thursday, Feb. 5, and runs through Feb. 27. Unlike traditional academic scholarships, the Bestowment Award is available to students entering trade schools or moving directly into the workforce within Crawford or Union counties, as well as those heading to four-year universities.
To be eligible, applicants or their guardians must hold an account at FFCB. The bank has removed traditional barriers such as minimum GPA requirements and lengthy essays, focusing instead on the applicant’s community alignment and future goals.
Last year, the program saw 29 applicants, including winners from Wynford, Buckeye Central, and Fairbanks high schools. Bank officials hope to exceed that number this year.
Applications must be submitted online via the bank’s website, FFCB.com, or by scanning QR codes located in bank lobbies. The bank maintains a strict deadline policy, with no applications accepted after Feb. 27.