Louisiana State University and First Lady Melania Trump announced a $7.2 million permanent endowment on Saturday to support LSU students who have experienced foster care.

The fund was announced during Trump’s visit to Baton Rouge. LSU said electrical contractor MMR Group committed $5 million, while 75 LSU Foundation donors contributed a further $2.2 million. The university expects the endowment to generate about $288,000 annually for eligible students.

Scholarships aimed at college costs

The new MMR Fostering the Future Endowed Scholarship will provide financial support for students who have experienced foster care and are attending LSU. The university said the fund can help with costs such as room and board, expenses that can make college harder to access for students without a family financial safety net.

The endowment is connected to Fostering the Future, an initiative that links young people from foster care with educational opportunities and resources. LSU described the new fund as permanent support for eligible students, with annual distributions expected from the endowment.

Sources

Associated Press: Melania Trump and LSU announce $7.2M to endow scholarships for former foster care students

Louisiana State University: LSU, First Lady announce $7.2 million endowment for former foster care youth