Sarah A. Bonnifield Vietnam Veterans Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Sponsored by Sacramento Region Community Foundation

Background
Sarah A. Bonnifield left the bulk of her estate to support veteran and other nonprofit organizations, including Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 500. In her honor, Chapter 500 established the Sarah A. Bonnifield Vietnam Veterans Scholarship Fund. The fund provides a $1,000 scholarship each year to a Vietnam Veteran or to a dependent or relative of a Vietnam Veteran.

Who may apply
- You are a Vietnam Veteran, or a dependent or relative of a Vietnam Veteran. (For clarity, “relative” includes spouse, son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter, nephew, or niece.)
- You are pursuing a degree at an accredited college or university.
- You can provide a legible copy of the Veteran’s DD214 (or other acceptable proof of military service).
- You can demonstrate financial need.

What to submit (supplemental questions / application items)
1. Verification of U.S. Armed Forces service (for example, a copy of a military ID or DD Form 214).
2. Confirmation that you are either a Vietnam Veteran or a dependent/relative of a Vietnam Veteran (see the list above for which relatives qualify).
3. Essay: Write an essay describing the “Coming Home” experience of Vietnam Veterans. (Be thoughtful and specific; this is a central part of the application.)
4. Two letters of recommendation from people who are not related to you.

Award and deadline
- Award amount: $1,000
- Application deadline: March 13, 2026

Quick checklist before you submit
- Legible copy of DD214 or equivalent
- Essay addressing the “Coming Home” experience
- Two non-related letters of recommendation
- Proof of current enrollment at an accredited college or university
- Any documentation you’ll use to demonstrate financial need

If you’re preparing this application, start early on the essay and request recommendation letters well in advance. Good writing and thoughtful recommendations make a real difference.