Young people aging out of the foster care system face multiple barriers, especially when pursuing post-secondary education. Without stable support from parents and family, former youth in care experience higher rates of mental health difficulties, have limited social, emotional, and financial support, and are less likely to access to post-secondary education (Fostering Success: Improving Educational Outcomes for Youth In/From Care, 2016).
In an effort to lower these barriers, UBC offers a number of supports for former youth in care. From tuition waivers to a team of ESPs dedicated to supporting these students, former youth in care are welcome and well-supported at UBC.
On March 12th, Linda Hallam and Hala Nugent, two members of the Former Youth in Care ESP team, attend Connect2Thrive, and event that connects youth who are aging out of care with resources that will assist them in the next stage of their lives.
“We were proud to be able to speak about UBC and the tuition waiver program for students from care and also to connect with other resources and services committed to empowering these youth. In addition to providing transition kits to the 100 youth leaving government care in Vancouver, Richmond and North Vancouver this year, this marketplace event brought together services who focus on housing, mentorship, life skills, health, education and employment.” Linda and Hala
ESPs are dedicated to ensuring UBC is accessible to all students. Making sure that supports are in place for former youth in care helps to make a big life transition less intimidating and more approachable.
Thanks, Linda and Hala, for taking the time to share our resources and connect with youth aging out of foster care!