FARMINGTON — The University of Maine at Farmington has been awarded a $250,000 grant per year for an anticipated five-year period, Congressmen Mike Michaud announced on Thursday.

The grant is through the U.S. Department of Education.

“Particularly in the wake of a difficult year for rural Upward Bound programs in Maine and around the country, this grant award is very welcome news,” Michaud said. “Upward Bound and other TRIO programs are a vital resource for Maine’s youth. I know that the staff in Farmington will continue to do an outstanding job helping Maine students reach their goal of earning a college degree.”

UMF’s Upward Bound program was established in 1980, and it is anticipating an enrollment of approximately 139 students in the coming academic year, the news released stated.

Federal TRIO Programs are designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to post baccalaureate programs. TRIO also includes a training program for directors and staff of TRIO projects.