Children FIRST--College SAVE Program

The College SAVE program that was held at LMES & LMHS the second night of parent teachers conferences provided a wealth of extremely valuable information to help parents and/or grandparents begin college savings plans for their children or grandchildren. I have several information packets from this presentation. If you would like one please contact me.

One program that was highlighted was the Children FIRST Program. This program focuses on beginning the saving process from the time a child is a newborn. When a parent, family member, or friend submits an application to Children FIRST on behalf of a ND baby (born Jan. 1st, 2011 or later), the Bank of North Dakota will contribute the first $100 for college to that child's Children FIRST account. For more information about this program, visit www.ndchildrenfirst.com

Other programs that are available include:

• Matching Grant Program that could potentially provide your child with up to $900 of free money (if you meet qualifying criteria) from the Bank of North Dakota!
• Ugift--Give College Savings Program allows you to invite family and friends to contribute to a child's college savings account using an automated online system.

With the costs of higher education rising each year, it is important to begin the college financial planning early. Please take some time to check out this wonderful opportunity to begin now, making the college cost issue much less stressful for you later! Visit www.collegesave4u.com to learn more!

Lance Hill was the presentor at our event and would be more than willing to visit with you via phone or email. You can contact him at 701-328-5619 or lrhill@nd.gov. You can also call toll free at 866-728-3529 to speak with a Plan representative Monday through Friday 8am-8pm.