Imagine dreaming of a career at the same time you’re struggling to pay rent or deal with childhood trauma. That’s the reality for many young people aging out of Canada’s child welfare system. At 18, these youth lose access to foster homes and social workers, leaving them to face an uncertain future, including barriers to furthering their education and pursuing a career.
To empower youth transitioning out of care, the Azrieli Foundation supports the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada in providing scholarships and bursaries through its Post-Secondary Education (PSE) Program.
The Foundation has donated $1 million to the PSE Program since 2018. In the 2024–25 academic year alone, a $150,000 contribution provided 10 scholarships and 30 bursaries. The program supports full- and part-time students and connects them with resources that support their success.
“This funding serves as a reminder that I’m not alone,” says one PSE Program recipient. “That kind of support is really important because it lets me know that people see potential in me, and that there is so much I can accomplish because of it. I hope to one day go to law school, and work in Parliament. I want to one day help create systems that are fair, inclusive and understanding, by speaking up for those who are often ignored.” — Jaclyn Law
Taking the patient approach