Here. For Brighter Futures.

For some youth, especially those who have aged out of government care, going to College or University is a dream that feels out of reach. Help dreams become reality.

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Across All United Way BC Regions

For many, back-to-school season is a time of great promise. But for some, it’s about pursuing a near-impossible dream. For youth transitioning out of care, post-secondary education means overcoming unimaginable barriers. Over 80% of BC families can provide financial assistance to their kids (ages 19–28) seeking post-secondary education. But former youth in care must manage this hardship…alone! 

Youth Futures Education Fund (YFEF), a United Way British Columbia supported program, is here for former youth in care who boldly pursue a post-secondary education against the odds. Through support from generous donors, like you, YFEF is able to provide students with funds that help them pay for basic living expenses like rent, food and tools needed for school.  

Help local youth today

Support former youth in care who dream of saying YES to post-secondary education.

Last year in BC, almost $630,000 was invested to help 492 students who have aged out of care and are pursuing a brighter future through post-secondary education. Despite BC’s Tuition Waiver Program for former youth in care, it costs some $26,500 a year to cover basic living expenses—rent, internet, transit, and food. Funds are allocated to students on a needs basis: which ranged from as large as $6,500 to as small as $20, per student, last year.  

With your help, more former youth in care can dream BIG: pursuing a vocation and a career that matters to them. 

Be Here. For brighter futures. Donate today. For tomorrow. 

Questions? Contact us at 1-877-557-1953 or info@uwbc.ca 

Education is the pathway to a brighter future.  

Your donation makes a positive impact in a youth’s life. 

Elanis’ Story

After losing her adoptive father as a teenager, Elanis was heartbroken and returned to government care for the second time in her life. Now, a young adult, Elanis dreams of becoming a social worker so she can help other youth as they navigate life in foster care. Elanis is currently studying at Thompson Rivers University in BC’s Interior region. Her dreams are becoming reality, thanks to YFEF supporters like you. 

Star’s Story

Star

Star was once a little girl who loved to write and draw. But growing up as a youth in government care with no family support, her dream of turning her creative talent into a career was far out of reach. Now at 26 years old, Star is a student in the 3D Animation Program for Game, Film & Visual Effects at Vancouver’s Langara College. Star says: “I have YFEF to thank for being able to learn a marketable skill that’s been fantastic for building my future… all because of this program and the support of United Way donors.” 

Caroline’s Story

Caroline is a former youth in government care, member of the Tseshaht First Nation and mother of two young children. After years of providing for her family, she made the bold decision to return to Vancouver Island University and complete her Child and Youth Care degree. Commuting from Port Alberni where she lives to school in Nanaimo, several times a week, was expensive and exhausting. But YFEF support was there for Caroline so she could persevere against the odds and make her educational dreams happen. 

Youth Futures Education fund

Help local youth today

Your donation will help alleviate the rising costs of food, gas and, essential student supplies.