Kids Chance of Montana on Tuesday received a $25,000 donation from Victory Insurance to help grow the number of scholarships it offers to children whose parents have been killed or seriously injured on the job.

Established in 2017, the Montana nonprofit recently joined a coalition of states that partner with Kids Chance of America to provide educational opportunities for students who've lost a parent or guardian at work.

“It's incredible the amount of support Kids Chance of Montana has received since the Montana chapter launched last spring,” said state president Peter Van Nice. “These contributions have tangible outcomes for the Montanan students that receive them. By being able to complete their education, these kids are able to get the training and schooling they need to join our workforce.”

Between 2011 and 2016, Van Nice said, 213 workers died on the job in Montana. In addition, Montana saw roughly 149 severe traumatic injuries from 2013 to 2014.

“We believe that by investing in the future of children impacted by these work-related traumas, we can provide them with the tools necessary to be successful in the workplace, so they can make a difference in their lives and communities,” he said.

The program's contributors include Walmart, Northwestern Energy, Midland Claims and Browning, Kaleczyz, Berry & Hoven. Numerous private donations have also been received, and Victory Insurance recently donated $25,000 to the state chapter's scholarship fund.

“If a tragic work event occurs, the Kids Chance of Montana is there to possibly help those Montana families,” said Victory president Keith Brownfield. “The Victory team appreciates the opportunity to support such a worthwhile cause, and we encourage others to do the same.”

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