How families can get scholarships for Des Plaines Park District programs

An organization that gives children in need funds to participate in Des Plaines Park District programming has money to provide more scholarships this year.

Des Plaines Friends of the Parks received a $36,612 donation from Rivers Casino to help kids attend educational programs and classes.

The donation will help the organization significantly increase its scholarship fund. Last year, it provided 100 kids with about $10,000 in funding.

Students who receive free or reduced lunches and live in Des Plaines Elementary District 62 or the Maine West High School boundaries are eligible. Applications are available at www.dpparks.org or www.desplainesfriendsoftheparks.org.