Due to the economic downturn, many parents may be debating whether their own or their children’s college education is more important. However, the increasing availability of financial aid and scholarships for parents who wish to enroll in a campus-based or online degree programs could enable several households to afford college for multiple family members.

In addition to the growing number of single mothers grants that are available through federal and privately funded programs, the Arkansas-based Single Parent Scholarship Fund recently announced the availability of financial aid for both mothers and fathers, news station THV reports.

Qualified applicants may receive up to $2,500 in financial aid, which they may use to pay for college-related expenses like online courses or cover more personal costs, such as car repair or childcare.

Similar programs could help parents in college feel less guilty about using precious time and money to improve their own qualifications, and know that they are doing their part to ensure their family’s future. In addition, they may find solace in the fact that they are able to earn a college degree for their own personal advancement.