Youth who have transitioned to adulthood from government care and are pursuing post-secondary education are vital to the future of our community. Helping these students to achieve their goals benefits everyone. That is why it’s so critical that youth are supported through this important life-stage.
In 2021/22, a total of 492 students received financial support through the Youth Futures Education Fund, which provides low-barrier access to funding for basic living expenses like food, rent, technology and mental health care. These funds help ensure students can stay focused on their studies, so they can achieve their goals, graduate and begin their careers, building healthy and productive lives.
Last year, with rising inflation, this support was increasingly important. In fact, students sought 8% more support on average than the previous year, with monies spent on rent and transportation increasing 8% and 10% respectively.
Thanks to individual donors and corporate, institutional and governmental support, 492 youth were able to continue and complete their studies, contributing to a stronger, more vibrant society for everyone.
“The stories these students share with us, speak directly to the impact of the fund on their lives, not only in helping them achieve their post-secondary goals, but also assuring them that they live in a community that cares about their success. This fund is making a tangible difference in the outcomes of youth across BC and enriching our communities in the process.”
Maureen Young, Fund Chair and Vice President, Social Purpose, Coast Capital
The 2021-22 Annual Report highlights the successes of this critical program including:
- $628,758 distributed to 492 students, with 25% identifying as Indigenous learners
- 8% of students successfully completing their studies
- 78% of students continuing their studies
- Three youth members joining the Youth Futures Advisory Committee, helping to ensure that fund governance is informed by former youth in care pursuing post-secondary studies
View Youth Futures Education Annual Report.
The Youth Futures Education Fund was collaboratively established by: Coast Capital, The Province of British Columbia, and the Office of the Representative for Children and Youth. The Youth Futures Education Fund is guided by an Advisory Committee, held at the Vancouver Foundation and is administered by United Way British Columbia – working with communities in BC’s Interior, Lower Mainland and Central & Vancouver Island.