Oct. 17 is International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. Poverty affects 24 per cent of children under the age of 17 on the Sunshine Coast. In addition, 50 per cent of workers on the Sunshine Coast make less than $30,000 per year.
You can make a difference in our community. The Bursary Society of Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Sunshine Coast gives out annual bursaries to women 21 or older who are continuing their education at a government-accredited post-secondary institution or through an accredited online program or course(s). These women are committed to advancing their education to improve the quality of life on the Coast for themselves, their children and the community.
CFUW’s history shows that many of the bursary recipients are single mothers supporting more than one child. One of the solutions to income inequality is education.
The bursary program began in 1990 and since that time over $172,000 has been given out locally in bursaries. In 2018, $11,000 was given to six women in the fields of health care and education, with a wide variety of ages and backgrounds. Supporting women to improve their quality of life and the lives of their children and families is of benefit to the community. Having qualified women who are able to fill job opportunities in communities on the Sunshine Coast, especially in the fields of health care and education is critical. Increasing the income potential of women and taking families out of poverty benefits the entire community.
You can help to make a difference. The Bursary Society has a fundraising card campaign with IGA stores throughout the province. Simply load up the IGA card at any store in B.C., for any amount you choose, and gift the card – for yourself, friends or family, in honour of a birthday, occasion or significant event. By purchasing a gift card, for only one dollar you can help someone step out of poverty in our community. Every time the card is reloaded, four per cent is donated to the Bursary Program and the card retains its full value. You can purchase the IGA cards through the Bursary Society by contacting cfuwscbursarysociety@gmail.com
You can make a difference and transform a life. Read more at www.cfuwscbursarysociety.org
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