Patriots Gateway Community Center was awarded a $23,400 grant to offer Gaining Early Awareness & Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP).

As a state GEAR UP grantee Patriots Gateway Community Center provides programs and services to 50 priority and cohort low-income students enrolled in grades 9-12 living in Winnebago County.

The mission of the federal program is to provide early intervention and college awareness to all students enrolled in the program. All priority students must qualify for free or reduced lunch and be attending one of the target schools at the time of enrollment.

Financially qualified students enrolled in grades 10 or 11, who participate in the program are eligible for scholarships. Interested families should call 815-967-0413 for more information.