Kansas FFA Foundation offers Gift of Blue jacket grants
Program helps ensure financial circumstances do not keep Kansas students from wearing the iconic blue corduroy jacket
The Kansas FFA Foundation is accepting applications for its fall Gift of Blue grant program, which provides official FFA jackets and ties or scarves to Kansas FFA members who need financial assistance. Applications are due Sept. 21.
The blue corduroy jacket has represented FFA membership, leadership, and belonging since 1933. Personalized with a member’s name on the front and chapter on the back, it connects students to a tradition shared by generations of agricultural leaders.
“The front of the jacket tells who a member is, and the back tells where they are from — but nowhere does it say how far they can go,” said Beth Gaines, executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. “Every Kansas FFA member deserves the opportunity to put on a jacket of their own and know they belong. The Gift of Blue removes a financial barrier so students can participate with pride and confidence.”
The program is open to Kansas FFA members enrolled in a school-based agricultural education program who need assistance purchasing official dress. Students complete an application describing their FFA involvement, goals, and what owning a jacket would mean to them. Their agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor must endorse the application.
Gift of Blue grants cover an official FFA jacket and the official tie or scarf needed for FFA official dress. Jackets are awarded during both the fall and spring semesters, supported by individuals, businesses, and organizations that invest in Kansas youth.
Demand continues to demonstrate the program’s importance. Nearly 200 Kansas students applied during the previous program year, and 55 received jackets. Additional donor support allows the foundation to place more jackets in the hands of members who are ready to learn, lead, and serve.
How to apply: Students should work with their agricultural education teacher and FFA adviser to complete the application by Sept. 21. Application information is available at ksffa.org/student-opportunities under “Gift of Blue.”
How to help: Individuals and businesses may help provide jackets for additional students by making a Gift of Blue contribution at secure.qgiv.com/for/giftofblue. Donors may designate support for a county or region.