When fewer than 25 per cent of youth in one of Toronto’s most poverty-stricken neighbourhoods apply to college or university, it’s easy to understand why the Yonge Street Mission is promoting education. The mission’s scholarship program is helping 25 Toronto youth receive post-secondary education this year—and the funds are renewable for up to four years.
“In our community of Regent Park, we know that education can act as a catalyst for change and allow young people to break the cycle of poverty. Without further education many doors remain closed and our youth may end up trapped in low-paying, dead-end jobs,” said Barbara Walkden, YSM’s director of development.
To receive a scholarship, youth must demonstrate financial need and be nominated by two staff members. “While the money is very important, the expression of confidence from mission staff may be even more valuable,” said Walkden. “Many recipients have no family support and it is very meaningful for them to hear someone say, ‘We believe in you.'” At a special dinner in August, those students taking multi-year education programs were awarded laptops donated by Dell Computers.
The mission also offers early and sustained support for children through preschool programs, homework clubs and computer classes, and training and employment support for homeless youth through the Evergreen Centre for Street Youth, which is headed up by Presbyterian Karen Bach.
YSM has served Toronto for 110 years, with 140,000 visits each year. – AM
