Patrick Mahomes, right, interacts with youth during the 2024 15 and The Mahoimes Gala. (15 and The Mahomies Foundation/Contributed Photo)

East Texas native and pro football champion Patrick Mahomes is investing in area youth through a newly established scholarship program.

The 15 and Mahomies Foundation announced on Wednesday afternoon the nonprofit’s new scholarship program which will support outstanding students in Tyler, Lubbock County, and Kansas City.

“Giving back to the communities that have shaped me has always been incredibly important,” Mahomes said in a press release. “Through the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation, we want to support the next generation of leaders and difference-makers. These scholarships are about lifting students up and showing them that their dreams are within reach.”

The foundation’s new scholarships include the Tyler, Texas area scholarship, Lubbock County Scholarship, and Kansas City Area Scholarship. Each will award $10,000 to five exceptional high school seniors within each community, recognizing their academic achievement, leadership and community involvement. In all, $150,000 will be awarded to the Class of 2025, according to the foundation.

Each community has personal ties for Mahomes. The Tyler scholarship aims to pour back into youth in Mahomes’ hometown area. He was born in Tyler and graduated from Whitehouse High School.

Meanwhile, the Lubbock County scholarship honors Mahomes’ collegiate journey, as the area is home to his alma mater of Texas Tech University. The Kansas City scholarship will support students in his current area, where he is quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Mahomes, recognized for both his athletic achievements and his commitment to community impact, founded the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation in 2019 with the mission of improving the lives of children and young adults.

“With these scholarships, Mahomes continues to invest in students’ futures, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of opportunity,” the foundation said.

The scholarships are made possible thanks to a partnership with Bold.org, a scholarship and student finance platform.

“This scholarship is about honoring Patrick’s journey and empowering students across these three communities with the tools to chase their dreams,” said Tori Meglio, VP of Donors at Bold.org. “We’re proud to partner with Patrick and his 15 and the Mahomies Foundation to support young leaders as they continue their educational and personal growth.”

High schools graduating in 2025 from the Tyler, Lubbock County or Kansas City areas who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership qualities, and active community involvement are eligible. Applicants must submit a 300- to 500-word essay sharing their personal story, passions, future goals, and any significant obstacles they have overcome that have shaped who they are today.

Tyler area residents can apply now by visiting this website: https://tinyurl.com/mahomestylerscholarship

Applications are due by July 30. Winners will be announced on Aug. 15.