ABA Foundation Launches New Survivor Scholarship to Support Survivors of Human Trafficking
New $5,000 award offers flexible, practical assistance for survivors as they pursue stability, education, and long-term independence
The American Bus Association Foundation (ABAF) is announcing the launch of its new Survivor Scholarship, a $5,000 scholarship created to provide practical, flexible financial support to survivors of human trafficking as they build stability and pursue next steps toward independence.
The Survivor Scholarship is open to both ABA members and non-members. One $5,000 scholarship will be awarded.
“Survivors deserve support that’s practical, meaningful, and centered on their choices,” said Lew Myers, ABA’s Director of Government Relations & Research. “This scholarship is intended to reduce barriers and connect survivors with resources that strengthen safety, stability, and opportunity. We’re honored to stand with partners working to end human trafficking—and we’re taking action today.”
Survivor Scholarship: Eligibility and Application Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required.
- Applicants must submit a statement (no less than one page) describing how the scholarship will benefit them. Personal details are prohibited.
- Applicants must provide a recommendation from an agency, counselor, service provider, social worker, and/or employer, and include contact information for two people who can vouch for the applicant’s determination, strength, and potential.
Allowable Uses of Scholarship Funds
The Survivor Scholarship may be used to support an applicant’s livelihood, including (but not limited to):
- Education and training expenses
- Housing needs
- Food assistance
- Daycare services
- Treatment recovery and rehabilitation support
Building on a Growing Commitment to Anti-Trafficking Efforts
The Survivor Scholarship expands ABAF’s ongoing commitment to anti-human trafficking initiatives across the motorcoach and group travel industry. In recent years, ABA has been recognized for its leadership and partnership in anti-trafficking education and awareness—including receiving the 2024 TAT Champion Award from TAT, an organization committed to educating, equipping, empowering, and mobilizing members of key industries and agencies to combat human trafficking. ABA has also continued to elevate frontline transportation professionals as key allies and “extra sets of eyes” in prevention efforts, including supporting FMCSA’s National Human Trafficking Prevention Month awareness work.
In 2025, ABA deepened its commitment through a partnership and engagement with Ho‘ōla Nā Pua, supporting survivor-centered work and community response efforts. The association has also encouraged recognition of industry heroes through nominations for TAT’s Harriet Tubman Award, spotlighting individuals who take action to protect vulnerable people.
How to Apply / Learn More
Qualified applicants can apply today through April 30, 2026. This will be an annual scholarship. More information is available on the ABAF’s scholarship page or send an email to the program administrator with the subject AMBUS.
