The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund provides assistance to financially needy dependents of those killed or permanently disabled on 9/11. To register in the Permanent Disability category of the fund, registrants must fill out and receive doctor approval for the Permanent Disability Certification Form.
The form defines permanent disability as follows: "Permanent disability means the victim is unable to engage in any occupation for remuneration or profit due to a physical or mental impairment which is expected to continue indefinitely. "Physical or mental impairment" is an impairment resulting from an anatomical, physiological or psychological abnormality which is demonstrable by medically acceptable clinical and laboratory diagnostic techniques. NOTE: (1) This definition of permanent disability may be different than standards used under other programs evaluating permanent disability and (2) one cannot be considered to have a permanent disability if the condition existed prior to September 11, 2001, unless the condition has substantially deteriorated as a result of an injury incurred in the impact area."
Note: If you need assistance with registration or with the form, please contact us and we'll work with you to ensure everything is submitted correctly. If you are unable to apply for Social Security Disability, an alternative review process, using the same medical criteria used by the Social Security Administration has been developed to accommodate your medical review. Please contact the Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund at 877-862-0136.
"The Families of Freedom Scholarship sustains the memories of all those lost or suffering due to 9/11. It is so humbling that donors, who are seemingly strangers, can show such kindness and compassion. Scholarship America gives me strength and hope for a better future."
The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund benefits financially needy dependent children, spouses, and domestic partners of 9/11 victims. If you are eligible to receive assistance, you'll need to complete a one-time registration; after that, you will need to submit an application each year.
Use the "Planning Ahead" Estimated Award Calculator to stimate what the family is expected to contribute to the student's college expenses, and the amount that may be awarded to you for the upcoming academic year.