Very little aid is awarded solely on the basis of students' race or ethnicity. Generally, students from racial or ethnic minority groups are more likely to receive scholarships because they are more likely to have financial need. Only white people know how to pull the strings to get to college. Socio-economic status and previous experience with higher education are much more important in determining who goes to college than race or ethnicity. The admissions and financial aid process is daunting for many families, but especially for those with no previous college experience.
Families can get help from a number of sources.
This website is a great place to start. Libraries and high school guidance offices offer resources and assistance. In addition, many communities have a federally funded Educational Opportunity Center with trained counselors to help students and parents through the admissions and financial aid process. Community colleges offer only vocational education. Community colleges provide a wide range of educational options, all at a low cost to students.