BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – New scholarships at Bellingham Technical College (BTC) will aim to alleviate stress for students who have children.

The state Board for Community and Technical Colleges announced over the weekend that it’s awarded $400,000 in grants to five schools across the state.

BTC received $80,000 that will be offered as annual scholarships for parenting students who are enrolled in aerospace-related programs.

The funds will support those students with childcare services so they’re able to focus more on their studies.

“We know childcare is a major barrier to education, and not just for prospective students but for the retention and persistence of current students,” said Jennifer Dellinger, policy associate for student support programs at the State Board. “Providing funds to support access to childcare is an important piece of ensuring access to education.”