MARQUETTE — The Marquette Area Public Schools Education Foundation, with area fiscal partners, is celebrating a newly established children’s savings account program called 1st to Finish.

To combat the increasing student loan debt in Michigan, 1st to Finish is a universal, automatic, long-term savings account for MAPS students beginning in first grade.

These CSAs will begin with an initial deposit by a local fiscal partner and allow for student, family and friend contributions to grow the account. 1st to Finish CSAs will be eligible for withdrawal by the graduated student to support tuition, fees, books, program expenses, start-up costs, equipment and more.

According to a new release from MAPS, the MAPS Education Foundation 1st to Finish CSA program will benefit the community as it has been proven CSAs improve mental health, attendance, post-secondary completion and the financial capability of families. Meetings with 1st grade families will begin in January.

The foundation’s mission to acquire and distribute financial and other resources throughout MAPS for unique programs and activities that supplement and enhance the quality of education and provide students with extended learning opportunities.

The foundation encourages supporters of Marquette schools to donate to funds of their interest. Contributions can be sent to: MAPS Education Foundation, 1201 W. Fair Ave. Include the scholarship name in the check memo line.