The recipient of the $1,000 scholarship was Makartnee Mortimer who is a student at Pittsburgh University majoring in physical therapy. Makartnee is a resident of Westfield and plans on continuing her education with hopes of working with individuals with prosthesis in the future.

The winners of the $500 scholarships included Rebecca Lash (Fredonia), Cora Bearce (Ripley), Shannon Fisk (Brocton), and Cassidy Glapa (Brocton). Each recipient submitted a 500-word essay highlighting their major, goals, and their future plans.

This year the program grew from 10 applicants to 23 applicants.

“It was a hard decision,” said Sandy Rollins, vice chair of the “988” scholarship. “When we receive the essays, the names, addresses, and school information have been blacked out to ensure every applicant a fair chance, and every essay is graded based solely on the content.”

Cassidy Glapa of Brocton is pictured receiving a “988 – Be the Hero” scholarship.

There are no age restrictions for the scholarship, the only prerequisites are that the applicant is a Chautauqua County resident, and that they have been accepted or are currently enrolled in the medical or mental health field.

Every year, the board organizes a basket giveaway to raise the funds needed for the scholarships. This year, the fundraiser was held at the John W. Dill American Legion Post 434 in Brocton, in June.

Sponsors include Jamestown Plastics Inc. (Brocton), Montes Small Engine Repair (Dunkirk), Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bandits, Seneca Tribe (Irving), Larry Romance & Sons (Sheridan), Tech Wash Randy Kane and ;Jay Groves (Fredonia), Fredonia Physical Therapy (Fredonia), Greg Frazita (Fredonia), St Stephens Café (Brocton), Heritage Winery (Northeast, Pa.), Merritt Winery (Forestville), and Noble Winery (Westfield).

“To date, over $9,000 has been awarded and next year, because of the generous donations, we will do it again,” Rollins said.

Donations are accepted throughout the year and can be made payable to “988 Scholarship Fund”. Mailing address is: 988 Scholarship Fund 110 W. Main Street, Brocton, NY 14716.