A total of $40,000 will be awarded for 2015 scholarships at the Acorn Equality Community Breakfast on Dec. 6. The Acorn Equality Fund provides academic financial support for gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered students, allies or the children of gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered parents.

Acorn Equality Fund, a 501(c)3 not for profit organization, serves all counties in Downstate Illinois. Applications must be postmarked by Sept. 26. Applications can be downloaded at: www.acornequalityfund.org.