Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) has received a second-year renewal of its TANF/FITAP grant, reaffirming the College’s role as a statewide leader in education-based support services. 

Awarded in June through a continued partnership with the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the grant supports the only program of its kind in Louisiana, aimed at expanding access to education and workforce training for families across North Louisiana. This vital funding directly aligns with Governor Jeff Landry’s “one-door” mission to streamline access to education, workforce, and human services for families in need.

Through the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program (FITAP), BPCC connects eligible students to short term resources and long-term goals by providing access to workforce training, career pathways, and wraparound services that build lasting self-sufficiency. The model is education centered, community focused, and designed to empower families in North Louisiana, putting the “community” back in community college.

“BPCC is honored to be the only college in the state leading this kind of work,” said Vaquetta Hudson, TANF Student Success Coordinator. “This program is about building futures and impacting our communities. We’re connecting students with skills, resources, and momentum to reach their goals.”

Now entering its second year, the initiative has already shown measurable results.  More than 60 students have enrolled in programs leading to workforce certifications, industry-based credentials, or college-degrees-each one contributing to greater job readiness and employability in the region. 

For student Brittany Pea, the support has been life changing.

“After spending several years incarcerated, I felt hopeless, but BPCC gave me purpose,” said Pea.  “As a TANF recipient, working with Ms. Hudson helped me to see a future for myself. Now I’m studying surgical technology to help patients like my grandmother, who never healed properly after a car accident.  I want to be part of the solution for my community.”

Dr. Teresa Jones, Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Services, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative.

“This grant is more than funding – it’s a gateway.  It brings the Governor’s “one-door” vision to life, uniting education, workforce training, and wrapping services into a seamless support system,” said Jones.  “BPCC is proud to stand at the doorway, providing access, equity, and opportunity to every student, regardless of where their journey begins.”

The TANF/FITAP initiative remains a key pillar in BPCC’s commitment to student achievement, economic mobility, and community transformation in North Louisiana. Current and prospective students who are interested in learning more about this initiative should contact Vaquetta Hudson at (318) 678-6206 or vhudson@bpcc.edu.