New license plates benefit children connected to Washington’s fruit tree industry

OLYMPIA, Wash.-- A new specialty license plate allows Washington Washington drivers to help children associated with the state's tree fruit industry go to college.

Starting July 1st, drivers can purchase the apple license plate for $77.25, and annual renewal, $30. Of that, the Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) receives $28 per year.

“Every single time somebody purchases one of those great looking Washington apple, they get to show that pride in our community, pride in industry and $28 from every plate…helps support students,” said Jennifer Witherbee, WAEF executive director.

Annually, WAEF awards over $1 million in scholarship assistance to children from Washington’s tree fruit industry, of which about 80% are first generation college students.

“Our support for students is absolutely financial, the scholarships are important to them,” said Witherbee. “But also, for our students isn’t that they get to college. Our goal for our students is that they graduate from college on time and they graduate career ready.”

The Washington Apple Commission prompted the plate as a nod to Washington apple growers and Senator Brad Hawkins spearheaded the bill.

To order an apple speciality license plate next Wednesday, visit here.

Kalie Drago contributed to this report.