SENATOR COLLINS URGES FUNDING FOR TRIO PROGRAMS

Washington, D.C. - Senator Susan Collins is requesting increased funding and support for all TRIO programs, which help students enter college, stay in college, and graduate. These programs assist low-income and potential first-generation college students as they pursue their college dreams. TRIO programs help raise students' aspirations by providing encouragement, support, and assistance.

"TRIO Programs truly help open the door to the American dream, helping students break through the social and cultural barriers that often prevent low-income or first generation students from accessing a college education. These programs are among the nation's most important education programs, designed to advance equal access and educational opportunity in America's colleges and universities," said Senator Collins.

In a bipartisan letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senators Susan Collins, Blanche Lincoln (D-AR), and Mary Landrieu (D-LA) expressed strong support for a significant increase in the Fiscal Year 2006 funding for TRIO Programs. TRIO Programs include Upward Bound, Talent Search, Student Support Services, and Educational Opportunity Centers.

Senator Collins also met today with Maine TRIO professionals and alumnae to discuss the importance of these invaluable education programs.