Blackfoot Student Connection Application

How to Apply for Blackfoot’s Student Connection Program 

Welcome

The Student Connection Program helps public schools in Blackfoot Communications’ rural Montana and Idaho cooperative service areas address one-time student needs identified by school staff or supplies for a school’s ‘care closet’. Since 2016, Blackfoot has provided approximately $18,000 for essential items such as school supplies, clothing, winter apparel, socks, and footwear. 

Start Here

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Program Criteria and Guidelines

Who May Apply

• Public schools within Blackfoot Communications’ rural cooperative service areas in Montana and Idaho.
• Applications must be submitted by a school representative, such as a principal, superintendent, guidance counselor, or teacher.
• Schools may apply on behalf of an individual student or a school Care Closet.

Funding Available

• Individual students: Up to $250 per student for a one-time need.
• Community Closets: Up to $250 per school each year for basic essentials.
• Funding may be provided by check or Amazon e-gift card.

Examples of Eligible Uses

• School supplies, backpacks, and classroom essentials
• Clothing, socks, undergarments, and footwear
• Winter coats, boots, hats, and gloves
• Hygiene and personal-care products for school Care Closet 

Important Criteria

• Community Closet requests must explain how the funds will be used and identify the items needed.
• Funds cannot be used to purchase Christmas presents for students.
• Requests for Close Up participants or similar student groups must be submitted through Blackfoot’s Community Support Application.
• Applications are accepted during the school year while funds remain available. Funding is not guaranteed.

Before You Submit

• Complete every required question marked with an asterisk (*).
• Describe the need, who will benefit, and how the support will be used.
• Review contact information carefully. Application updates will be sent to the email address provided.

What Happens Next

Blackfoot will review your application and respond by email. Watch for messages from @email.submittable.com. If you do not receive a confirmation or update, check your Junk or Spam folder.

Application Troubleshooting

For the best experience, use Google Chrome on a Mac or Windows computer. If your application will not submit:

• Confirm all required fields are complete.
• Save your application, sign out, and close your browser.
• Reopen your browser, log back in, and reopen the application.
• Select Submit and watch for a confirmation email.

Still Need Help?

• For technical support with the application portal, contact Submittable or call 855-467-8264, ext. 4. 
• For questions about the Student Connection Program, email education@blackfoot.com or call 406-541-5111.

Thank You

Thank you for considering Blackfoot’s Student Connect Program as a resource for your school and students. While funding is not guaranteed, the strongest applications clearly describe the need, the students who will benefit, and how the requested support will be used.