LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM FOR VETERANS HOMES NURSES LAUNCHED

 HARRISBURG, NOV. 22 – State Sen. Connie Williams announced a new loan forgiveness program that will address the nursing shortage in Pennsylvania.

 The new program – the State Veterans Homes Nurses program -- is targeted at recently graduated nurses who are employed in one of the six Pennsylvania State Veterans Homes. Those who qualify can have up to 50 percent, or a maximum of $10,000, of their student loan debt forgiven.

 “This new program not only supports our state veterans, and pays tribute to the contributions and sacrifices of our armed services, but also begins to address the shortage of nurses,” Williams said.

 Loans are forgiven over three years of qualified employment.

 Qualified applicants must:

• Complete a qualifying program of study between Nov. 17, 2005 and Dec. 31, 2006 that leads to certification as a Licensed Practical or Registered Nurse

• Have outstanding AES/PHEAA owned, serviced and guaranteed Stafford or guaranteed Consolidated loans in good standing

• Pass the state licensure exam within nine months of receiving the nursing degree or certificate

• Begin full-time employment as a direct care nurse within three months of graduation at one of the six State Veterans Homes

• Complete at least one full year of continuous, full-time, direct patient care employment after graduation

 For program applications and more information, please visit www.pheaa.org or call 1-800-233-0557 ext. 5473.