This program awards bursaries to youth in care to support their post-secondary education.
Youth
who are or have been in the care of the Children’s Aid Society face
different challenges than most youth entering adulthood. Many of these
youth live independently on limited financial resources. They do not
have a stable family to turn to for support. For some youth, the
opportunity to attend post‐secondary school is not a viable option for
them.
The Children’s Aid Society of London and Middlesex
Bright Futures Bursary Program provides bursaries to marginalized youth
between the ages of 18 and 21 who are or who have been in the care of
the Children’s Aid Society. The existence of this fund helps to
highlight the value of post‐secondary education and encourage youth to
aspire to such a goal.
Research
indicates that a youth in care who is able to worry less about their
debts and financial challenges has a better chance of achieving their
educational dreams. We have seen an increase in confidence and optimism
in our bursary recipients that have enabled them to complete their
education and give back to their community.
The
distinguishing difference of the Children’s Aid Society of London &
Middlesex Bright Futures Bursary Program from other bursary programs in
the community is that bursaries are awarded only to youth who are, or
were part of the child welfare system (living in foster care, with no or
limited biological family contact or support). Bursaries are provided
to youth enrolled in community college, university, or an accredited
trades/apprenticeship program.
Bursaries are provided annually
in two installments up to a maximum of four years or until our youth
achieve their diploma/degree. Recipients of the award are required to
complete an annual progress report and provide confirmation of
enrollment in each term they are enrolled in prior to receiving funding.
The value of bursaries vary year to year depending on the amount of
funds available. Recipients attending school part‐time will receive a
pro‐rated award based on the number of courses they are taking.
Since
the programs’ inception in 2002, the Bursary Program has assisted 155
youth pursue post‐ secondary education. Their stories of
determination and their ability to overcome adversities in pursuit of a
better future are truly commendable.
Bright Futures Bursary Program - PDF