B.C. aids former children in care - Child And Family - British Columbia's educational assistance fund for young adults formerly in government care - Brief Article

Community Action, July 15, 2002

VICTORIA -- A $2-million youth educational assistance fund will help young adults who were formerly in government care. It will pay for post-secondary education or vocational training, Children and Family Development Minister Gordon Hogg announced.

Each year about 700 children in care of the ministry reach the age of majority. According to Hogg "Many may wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge through further education or training".

Beginning this year, the $2-million youth educational assistance fund will be held in trust by the Victoria Foundation to help these young adults.

People who are between their 19th and 24th birthdays who were in permanent government care, and who are eligible for the B.C. student assistance program through the Ministry of Advanced Education, can apply for bursaries of up to $2,500 per year to a maximum of $10,000 over five years.

Eligible young people can apply for the bursaries through the Ministry of Advanced Education's student services branch.

800-561-1818