The Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation (BMCF), a small LA-based nonprofit, has surpassed $750,000 in scholarships awarded to current and former foster youth achieving a rare milestone—getting a college degree.
BMCF will celebrate its latest cohort of scholarship recipients on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 3 p.m. at the BMCF house in LA’s historic West Adams district. Members of the media are encouraged to attend, interview scholarship recipients, and shine a light on those whose achievements are often unsung.
Some of this year’s scholars have earned or are actively pursuing graduate-level studies, including masters and doctoral degrees. This is a remarkable achievement for those who have been in foster care.
“Nationally, foster youth face significant barriers to higher education, with very few earning bachelor’s degrees. Only a tiny fraction complete graduate degrees,” says Jackie Broxton, founder, president and CEO of the Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation. “Our scholars are redefining what’s possible, and it’s our honor to support their stigma-defying growth.”
Since launching its scholarship program in 2018, BMCF has awarded more than $750,000 to current and former foster youth pursuing higher education. Their efforts reflect the outsized impact a small, grassroots nonprofit and dedicated community members can have on foster youth in Los Angeles.
Event Details
What: 2026 Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation Scholarship Awards Ceremony
When: Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.
Where: The BMCF Center, 2193 W. 25th St, Los Angeles, CA 90018
Contact: Please email Emily Peters at info@biddymason.com with questions or to confirm attendance for media coverage
About the Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation
The Biddy Mason Charitable Foundation (BMCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing the legacy of Biddy Mason by serving LA’s current and former foster youth and raising awareness for Black history. BMCF is named in honor of Biddy Mason, a formerly enslaved woman, who became a leading entrepreneur and philanthropist in Los Angeles.
