WENATCHEE — The Community Foundation of North Central Washington announced Monday it had awarded $1.3 million in scholarships to 214 students across North Central Washington, the largest amount awarded to date, according to the announcement.

“Scholarships are such a personal way to give back to the community,” wrote Julie Mott, the foundation’s scholarship specialist, in the announcement. “Each one is unique and established for various reasons – some are created to remember loved ones, some to support their alma mater or field of study, and some are simply compelled to help deserving students who need financial support. We are honored and humbled to carry out these dreams and wishes of those who generously established them, and we also thank the hundreds of volunteers who help to make it all happen.”

The foundation manages over 150 scholarships established by individuals, families, and businesses from across the region. According to the announcement, the criteria for each scholarship are set by the donor and can range from academic achievement to community involvement to overcoming obstacles.

The scholarships support students attending community college, university or a trade school, the announcement said, and most of the scholarships aim to support students with the greatest financial need.

The next scholarship application cycle opens Jan. 1, according to the announcement. General scholarship applications are due March 1, and Nursing, Allied Health and Trade scholarship applications are due on June 1. The release said that students will need to complete the Free Application for Student Aid (which opens Dec. 1) and collect letters of recommendation for the application.

For a listing of this year’s award recipients and how to apply, visit www.cfncw.org/scholarships.