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NewsWSVN 7 MiamiSeptember 2, 2026Miami-Dade

United Way Miami and educational leaders address $28 million in unclaimed Pell Grant funding

Educational leaders and community organizations met to discuss strategies for increasing Pell Grant utilization after research identified $28 million in unclaimed federal aid for Miami-Dade students. The session focused on simplifying the transition to higher education and identifying gaps in financial aid application completion.

educationfinancial aideconomic developmenthigher education
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Why It Matters

Local students are missing out on $28 million in available federal financial aid, which impacts their ability to pursue s and affects the county's long-term economic growth.

Key Facts

  • $28 million in Pell Grant funding remains unclaimed by eligible students in Miami-Dade.
  • The primary cause for unclaimed funds is identified as students not completing financial aid forms.
  • Research suggests that 1,500 additional students continuing their education after high school could generate over $1 billion in social and economic value for the county.
  • The meeting focused on identifying gaps in the transition process from high school to higher education.
  • United Way Miami is leading the initiative to increase postsecondary degree attainment.

Who's Mentioned

organizationUnited Way Miami“Organizer of the meeting regarding college funding.”locationMiami-Dade“The geographic area affected by the funding gap.”personSymeria Hudson“President and CEO of United Way Miami.”other1,500“Number of additional students needed to pursue post-high school education to rea”