The LaMantia Family, through the Stars Scholarship Fund, is proud to announce a new initiative aimed at increasing the number of mental health professionals in South and West Texas.
In response to the growing mental health crisis in these regions, Texas Senator Morgan LaMantia (D-27), Chairperson of Stars Scholarship, announced that her family will pledge a total of $1 million. This funding will be distributed to select university partners that offer post-graduate programs designed to help students become Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW).
During a press conference at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Institute of Neuroscience on August 1st, UTRGV President Guy Bailey announced that UTRGV School of Social Work will be the first school to receive a portion of this gift: $130,000. These funds will cover at least 80% of the expenses for students seeking their state licenses.
Social workers are often the first line of defense for those in need, with clinical social workers diagnosing and addressing behavioral and mental health disorders. However, the cost of pursuing a professional social work program can exceed $13,000, creating a significant financial barrier for many students.
"This initiative aligns perfectly with the vision of my family and Stars Scholarship," said Senator Morgan LaMantia. "By empowering and supporting students, we can turn hope into action and foster a brighter future for our communities."
For more information on Stars Scholarship Fund, please visit www.starsscholarship.org.
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