Education

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Where prevention and enrichment programs provide the necessary protection and nourishment for healing children, education is an illuminating tool which enables children and youth to break the cycle of disadvantage, realize their own potential and build a brighter future for themselves.

Our belief is that education for at risk children and youth is paramount, as it is the most powerful resource a youth can use to shape the future. Our comprehensive education strategy aims to reduce the widening gap that affects youth assisted by the child welfare system. The children and youth we serve are at higher risk of lagging behind their peers in school and are much more likely to drop out before graduating.

Our education programs aim to provide them with opportunities to catch up to their peers, stay in school and where possible, work toward obtaining a post-secondary education.

Our support is directed into three major areas:

• Preschool programming to help kids get ready to learn
• Programs and incentives for success in elementary and high school
• Financial support for youth who continue on to post-secondary education

Program Highlight - Scotia Capital Stay In School Awards

The Scotia Capital Stay in School Awards program offers rewards to abused, neglected and at risk children and youth for improvements in attendance, behaviour, attitude, marks and grades. It also provides incentives to achieve the milestones of Grade 8 and Grade 12 graduation. During the 2009-2010 fiscal year, 2,542 disadvantaged children and youth from 17 communities across Canada received support from the Scotia Capital Stay In School Awards program. Since 2005, more than 11,654 Stay in School Awards have been presented.

Program Highlight - Scholarships and Bursaries

When a youth working to break the cycle of disadvantage receives educational support, their pathway to success can be realized. Since 1995, the Children’s Aid Foundation has awarded scholarships and bursaries for university, college, trade and vocational schools. The selection process is based on a combination of academic achievement, personal community contribution and financial need. For many of our students, a scholarship is their path to a brighter future. In 2009-2010, an impressive 248 scholarships and bursaries were awarded.

“I do not know what compels someone to be so generous. You will not only change my life, but you will have helped change the lives of all those I will help in the future.”
Alexandra: thoughts on acceptance of her post secondary scholarship

For more information on Education programs please contact Patricia Kemp at pkemp@cafdn.orgor 416-923-0924 x228