RED BANK - The Education Foundation of Monmouth County, the Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce (EMACC) education arm, has released applications for its 2008 scholarship program.

Applications for the $1,250 scholarships are available at www.emacc.org. The filing deadline is Friday, May 2.

Students entering their junior or senior year of college, adults returning to college, and individuals pursuing vocational programs are eligible to apply. Students must also either live or work in the chamber service area that includes the communities of Eatontown, Fair Haven, Little Silver, Monmouth Beach, Oceanport, Red Bank, Rumson, Sea Bright, Shrewsbury and Tinton Falls. Additional information is available in the application packet.

In 2007, the EMACC Educational Foundation presented scholarships to 14 nontraditional students. Over the past decade, the foundation has awarded more than $90,000 in scholarship money to students who live or work in the eastern Monmouth area.

"It is wonderful to see each of the scholarship recipients move toward life and career goals," said Lynda Rose, director of EMACC. "In particular, adult students returning to complete their education tell us over and over again that it's great to have the foundation giving them a boost while they balance school, work and family obligations. Each recipient has a unique story, a special commitment to education and understands the importance of giving back to the community."