Young adults in Prince George and throughout B.C., who were previously in government care, can apply for funding to help support their living expenses while they pursue their educational goals.
The United Way of British Columbia and the provincial government have invested $250,000 each to the Youth Futures Education Fund (YFEF) which is now has a balance of $600,000 for 2022 which is marked for youth aging out of government care and into the community.
In 2021, the fund supported nine students at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and 13 students at the College of New Caledonia (CNC).
The fund provides low-barrier access to funds to support living expenses like rent, food and textbooks for youth who have aged out of the foster care system and are attending a post-secondary institution through the provincial tuition waiver program.
That program waives tuition for former youth in care at all 25 public post-secondary institution, the Native Education College and 10 union trades training providers.
“Equal access to education means equal access to dreams. Only 17 per cent of BC youth who have been in government care make it to post-secondary education within three years of high school graduation, compared to 48 per cent of other youth,” said Kim Winchell, a senior director with the United Way British Columbia.
“Many lack the social and financial support networks that are accessible to other young people. Encouragement and guidance are essential for youth at this critical point in their lives - so is financial support. That’s why United Way British Columbia is pleased to support the Youth Futures Education Fund.”
21-year-old B.C. student Simranjit, who aged out of foster care, once though pursuing post-secondary education was a insurmountable goal, but with support from YFEF she is now studying at Douglas College and has her sights on a PhD in psychology.
“I have been able to pay for groceries, books, school supplies, and my bills. I can focus my time and energy on my studies without financial stress hanging over my head,” said Sim.
“I am beyond grateful for being given a chance to pursue my education in full force without struggling financially to survive.”
From 2020 to 2021, YFEF distributed over $550,000 to 519 students throughout the province and these funds helped alleviate financial strain for students during a challenging pandemic year.
In 2022, the Youth Futures Education Fund will disburse $600,000 to help ensure youth from care have equal access to educational opportunities.
“We know that this past year has been incredibly difficult for all students, and especially young people who are overcoming barriers to post-secondary education,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training.
“The Youth Futures Education Fund is one more way students can shift from surviving to thriving as they can focus on creating a future through education, skills development or learning a trade to make their dreams and goals a reality.”
B.C. youth who are on a tuition waiver can apply for support from the Youth Futures Education Fund online.
