Stipend Program

Children's Well-being League works in partnership with school designated liaisons, Guidance Counselors, or school Social Workers to offer monthly stipends to high school students in good academic standing with demonstrated financial need.

Geographic Scope: Buncombe County area high schools

Eligible Students:

• High school students in good academic standing
• Demonstrated financial need
• Recommended by school liaisons, guidance counselors, or social workers

Award Details:

• Monthly stipend: $70
• Holiday bonus: $100
• Graduation award: $75
• CWL Senior Scholar bonus: One senior selected per school receives an additional $100 upon graduation

Typical Uses:

• Basic necessities (rent, groceries, personal supplies)
• School fees
• Field trips
• Social activities

Program Scale: Approximately 320 students participated in academic year 2024-2025. Waiting lists exist at every school.

Partner Schools:

• Asheville High School
• Community High School
• Early/Middle College
• Enka High School
• Erwin High School
• Nesbitt Discovery Academy
• North Buncombe High School
• Owen High School
• Reynolds High School
• Roberson High School

History: The Stipend Program has been a core component of CWL's mission since the organization began in 1923, focused on improving the lives and education of students in the Buncombe County area.

Application Process

Students do not apply directly. Students are nominated by school-designated liaisons, Guidance Counselors, or school Social Workers from their respective county and city high schools based on:

• Good academic standing
• Demonstrated financial need