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Pell Grant Problems

For many students in Southshore, Pell Grants have made college possible. But now, proposed federal changes to the program could make it harder for local students to stay enrolled and on track.

Under the proposed changes, the maximum Pell Grant award would be reduced, and students would be required to complete more credit hours per year to qualify as full-time. Students taking fewer than six credit hours would no longer be eligible at all.

That might sound minor, but here in Southshore, where many students juggle jobs, and other responsibilities, it’s a big deal.

Thousands of students at Hillsborough Community College and other local schools rely on Pell Grants to help pay for tuition, books, and transportation. A lot of those students take classes part-time because that’s all they can manage while working or taking care of their families.

If these changes go into effect, many of them could lose their funding or be forced to take on more student debt just to keep going. Some may have to drop out altogether.

This could also impact the local workforce. Fewer students in school means fewer graduates entering trades, healthcare, education, and other industries that keep Southshore running. And when higher education becomes harder to access, it hits working families the hardest.

Nothing is final yet, but if you're a student or a parent with kids in school, it's a good time to stay informed and plan ahead.

Have a story to share about how changes to Pell Grants could impact your family? We want to hear it. Send us a note at [email protected] or let us know on our Facebook Page.

This issue goes beyond the classroom. It affects our future, our economy, and the opportunities available to the people who call Southshore home.

Things to do

What’s Washing Up on The Shore This Week

July Panel of the Month – Functional Health Evaluation Panel

Take charge of your health this summer with our comprehensive Functional Health Evaluation Panel for just $289.

Offer valid through 7/31/25

Book your lab today at Wellness Vitalized or call us to schedule!

Summer Reading in Southshore

In Wimauma, Inspira Tampa Bay is offering a free Summer Reading Program for children ages 3 and up, every weekday from 4 to 6 p.m., led by dedicated volunteers from St. John the Divine Episcopal Church. What started as monthly reading sessions has now grown into a full-blown summer initiative to support young readers who might be falling behind or lack support at home.

How Families in Southshore Can Benefit

• No income limits – any child can join, based on their reading level or interest

• Fun incentives through local programs like Reading with the Rays and Score Through Stories, with rewards like game tickets, tote bags, and savings accounts

• Free books for kids to take home and build their own libraries

Why It Matters Locally

• The program gives a much-needed boost to early literacy, especially for kids whose parents may face language or literacy challenges

• It helps prevent summer learning loss and keeps kids engaged, focused, and ready for school in the fall

• Early reading support has lasting effects, building confidence and improving academic performance

Want to Help?

• Register your child by calling Inspira at 813-323-5783 – it’s completely free and open to all

• Volunteer as a reader and become part of a team that’s already making a difference every week

A Win for Our Neighborhoods

This is what real community looks like. Neighbors helping neighbors, one story at a time. Programs like this one in Wimauma, and others across Riverview, Ruskin, and Sun City Center are sparking a love of learning that will ripple through Southshore for years to come.

AROUND TOWN

Featured Summer Camps & Training

Spring sports are in session. Find times for your favorite games below.

News or Events you’d like to share? Email us at: [email protected] 

Until next time,

Keep It Local.