Have you been hit hard by the economic crisis? If you watch news programs then you know you're not alone. A lot of laid off workers haven't had chances to secure new jobs. Even recent graduates with plenty of education and ambition have found it difficult to get hired. It's regrettable that many analysts think these employment trends will continue. Although things are bleak now, there is a silver lining created by providing economic opportunity for several different pursuits. The Obama administration and lawmakers have been on a mission to put consumer protections in place while still allowing business markets to prosper. Another important area is education. The goal is to make loans secure and increase the opportunity for college scholarships. The administration's Grants for Moms initiative is just one development. To ensure children in the years to come value education, it's important to begin with educating mothers. If you're a mother, the grant would come from the government's Pell Grant system. Under the new system moms can get as much as $5,000 for their education. Working moms as well as at-home moms can use the grant to pay for any education expenses. Tuition, room and board and travel expenses are some of the items that are considered school-related expenses. It's an added bonus that the program lets you choose the institution that's best for your needs. Grants for mothers can be used at 2- and 4-year institutions as well as some online options. The first step to get any financial aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. The online form is necessary and easy to complete. There are many other kinds of financial aid as well, and the internet is a great place to research them. There are private scholarships as well as state and federal. The financial aid office of the college you want to attend can also provide valuable information. Education is no doubt a priority now as well as for the future. Sending moms to school has dual benefits: preparing them to be productive members of the work force and allowing them provide for their families. Of course education's impact on families now and in the future is the primary function of the President's grants for mothers. It is the educated men and women of today as well as children who are gifted with education opportunities that will lead the country toward a brighter future.