The Student Assistance Foundation in Helena, Montana, has announced grants totaling $1.2 million to twenty-one higher education institutions in the state to assist students in need of financial aid.

The funding will enable two- and four-year postsecondary schools, including tribal and private institutions, to award Acce$$ Grants to students who meet the schools' financial aid requirements. This year, grantees include Blackfeet Community College, Carroll College, Flathead Valley Community College, Montana State University, MSU-Great Falls College of Technology, Salish Kootenai College, and the University of Montana-Western.

Since it was established nine years ago, the Acce$$ Grants program has distributed $6.9 million to students with demonstrated financial need. "Acce$$ Grants are the cornerstone for SAF's public benefit efforts," said Kelly Chapman, SAF's vice president of foundation activities. "At SAF, we believe these grants demonstrate our commitment to Montana students and families, Montana schools, and ultimately the future of our state. It's our privilege to be of assistance in this way."