Applications now accepted through April 28 for awards of up to $4,000
For many Ventura residents, the cost of higher education is one of the biggest barriers standing between a high school diploma and higher education. Ventura Housing is working to change that. As students of Ventura Housing families across the City of Ventura near the end of their high school journey and prepare to take their next steps, Ventura Housing, in partnership with its nonprofit affiliate ATLAS-Ventura Housing, has opened applications for its annual scholarship program, offering its residents and participants the opportunity to earn up to $4,000 toward their education.
The scholarship is open to current residents of Ventura Housing public housing communities, participants in the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, and household members who are enrolled in or planning to attend a community college, vocational or trade school, four-year university, or graduate program. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA or higher. First-time applicants will receive priority consideration.
“We see every day what is possible when our residents have the right support behind them,” said Jeffrey Lambert, Chief Executive Officer of Ventura Housing. “This scholarship exists because we believe anyone with the determination to further their education and skill development deserves a real opportunity to make that happen.”
The program, which Ventura Housing has offered since 2014, reflects the organization’s broader mission of supporting the long-term economic self-sufficiency of Ventura residents. Beyond the financial award, scholarship recipients are encouraged to mentor future applicants and participate in free financial literacy workshops covering topics such as credit building, savings, budgeting, and debt management, offered virtually in partnership with community organizations including the Ventura County Credit Union and Montecito Bank and Trust.
Applications are available online at venturahousing.org/scholarships. Paper applications are also available by contacting the Scholarship Coordinator. To apply, students must submit a completed and signed application, two letters of recommendation from non-family members such as teachers, counselors, or employers, a sealed copy of their official school transcripts, and a personal essay responding to the question: “What are your academic and career goals, and how will this scholarship help you achieve them?” Four-year college, university, and community college students must also include proof of FAFSA submission for the 2026-2027 academic year. The application deadline is Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at noon. Recipients will be recognized at an awards ceremony in June.
“Every eligible resident deserves to know this opportunity exists,” Lambert said. “I encourage anyone who qualifies to apply and take that next step toward their future.”
For questions or to request assistance with the application, contact Scholarship Coordinator Gabby Vasquez at (805) 843-1848 or scholarship@hacityventura.org.