The plight of ALS-affected families has taken a hopeful turn with the successful launch of a new scholarship program aimed at buffering children against the devastating financial impacts wrought by the disease. Oregon State Treasurer Tobias Read, alongside ALS Northwest, heralded the initiative on Tuesday, marking a significant step in providing for the educational future of kids like 12-year-old Izzy Canepa, whose father passed away from the disease last December.
In a report by the Oregon Newsroom, Read empathized with families grappling with ALS, having witnessed his own father's struggle. Through the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program, children under 17 are given the means to save for higher education, and since April, four children have started to receive funds with several others positioning to benefit. "Education is a steppingstone to a better life, and this pioneering effort ensures that children who lose a parent or guardian to ALS don’t also lose the ability to benefit from career training or college," Read stated, reflecting the scholarship's commitment to educational accessibility.
Christine Acuna, Izzy’s mother, conveyed her gratitude, "We are deeply grateful for the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program, which has been a huge relief in planning for Izzy’s education." She believes that the program will support many other families moving forward. In an unfortunate illustration of ALS's impact, around 7 percent of families receiving assistance from ALS Northwest in 2023 included at least one minor child.
As part of the scholarships, participating families gain access to funds through the Oregon College Savings Plan, which allows for tax-free savings directed toward a variety of educational expenses. Cassey Adams, Care Services Director for ALS Northwest, highlighted, "Through the gift of education, we aim to empower the next generation with hope, opportunity, and the necessary tools for success,"
Sourced from the Oregon Newsroom, the Nudelman program, named after a deceased benefactor of Portland State University, ensures the proliferation of her legacy of support and kindness. The program, backed by donations, encourages the public to contribute, thereby strengthening the financial lifeline it extends to the families it was created to support.
