Towson caregivers at Blakehurst Senior Living received $228,000 in scholarships from residents who wanted to support the people caring for them daily, reports Baltimore Chronicle. The awards went to 60 employees in Towson, Maryland.
Why residents created the scholarship support
The Blakehurst Residents Scholarship Fund has operated for 21 years. Joyce Brown, its president, said residents wanted to give back to workers who improve their daily lives.
Since launch, the fund has awarded more than $2 million to over 900 employees. This year’s grants can help staff continue education in nursing, health information technology, teaching, and related fields.
Key numbers behind the Blakehurst scholarship
Before the awards, caregivers faced a wider Maryland workforce problem: low pay and staff shortages.
| Detail | Figure |
|---|---|
| Total scholarship money | $228,000 |
| Employees awarded | 60 |
| Years of the fund | 21 |
| Total awarded since launch | $2 million+ |
| Employees helped since launch | 900+ |
These numbers show why the program matters beyond one retirement community. It links appreciation with career mobility.
Maryland caregiver shortage adds urgency
Longevity Ready Maryland says the average care worker earns less than $20 an hour. It also reports that 43% rely on public assistance and 39% lack affordable housing.
For employees like Oise Bradley and Marie Odoms, the grants reduce financial pressure. Bradley plans to teach African American studies. Odoms is continuing health information technology studies. Recipients have until June 30, 2027, to use the funds.
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