Support for Low-Income Students (KEYS)

Keystone Education Yields Success (KEYS)

Are you interested in attending BC3 and receiving services from the County Assistance Office? If so, you may qualify for additional support through the KEYS Program! A program of the PA Department of Human Services in collaboration with the PA Commission for Community Colleges, the KEYS Program at BC3 serves as a liaison to students. Statistics show that individuals who earn a credit-bearing certificate or associate degree earn more money through employment after graduation. Let KEYS open the door to a brighter future for you and your family.

What is KEYS?

The KEYS Program is designed to help Temporary Aid for Needy Families (TANF) and Food Stamp recipients succeed in community college.  KEYS helps you achieve your career goals by:

  • Providing career counseling, extra tutoring and academic support
  • Facilitating supportive services available through your County Assistance Office (CAO)
  • Advocacy to your County Assistance Office
  • Connecting the student to other community service agencies
  • Access to the KEYS' Laptop Loan Program and graphic calculators
  • Education Resources and Incentives
  • KEYS Computer Learning Center
  • Additional hours of tutoring

How do I enroll in KEYS?

If you are currently enrolled at BC3 and receiving TANF, contact the KEYS Office at BC3--contact information in left sidebar of webpage--or ask your CAO Caseworker about KEYS.

If you receive TANF or Food Stamps and are not enrolled at BC3, talk to your Caseworker at the CAO before enrolling in case you may be eligible for support services and/or the KEYS Program.

You may be eligible to receive:

(Issued by CAO)

  • Child care
  • Transportation
    • Mileage payment for use of auto
    • Payment for public transportation
  • School/training registration fee
  • Books and school or training supplies
  • Test fees
  • Clothing and uniform
  • Equipment/tools needed for school/training
  • Car purchases
  • Car repair
  • Motor vehicle operator fees
    • Driver's License
    • License plates
    • Vehicle registration
    • Vehicle inspection

KEYS Forms

 

Online Resources

The STEPS Online Guide to Public Assistance: How to Get the Help You Need