ROCKPORT — For the third year since its inception, the Twin Lights Beverages Trust is seeking applicants for its sizeable scholarships.
The amount of the awards can be a game changer for students. This year, the trust can give up to six awards, of up to $25,000 each; the students need to be residents of Rockport or Gloucester.
Returning applicants can receive up to $20,000.
The scholarship award, which has an April 1 application deadline, does not have to be for the top students, but for students who want to give back to Cape Ann, whether that means going to college or pursuing a trade.
To date, the Twin Lights Beverages Trust has awarded $250,000 to students.
Philip Hopkins, a trustee of the Twin Lights Beverages Trust, wants to encourage students to apply.
The trust is the legacy of local businessman Pierce Sears, who made the beloved Twin Lights soda at the former factory that was located at the corner of Broadway and Main Street.
“We don’t necessarily seek only the top-ranking kids because there also is other strong potential in students who have a desire to give back to the community and are highly motivated,” Hopkins said. “We have a lot of talent on Cape Ann and we want to empower the kids. This is a huge opportunity and we want to get the word out.”
The schools and fields of interest are diverse with scholarship recipients attending the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Endicott College, University of New England, Framingham State among others.
Details and an application may be found at: www.twinlightstrust.org/apply.