Bridging the Gap: New Bursary Aims to Boost Post-Secondary Access for Youth from Care

TORONTO, ON – November 21, 2025

Investing in Futures, Breaking Down Barriers

A new $1 million commitment, forged between the TELUS Friendly Future Foundation and the Belonging Network, promises to reshape opportunities for youth navigating the complexities of the foster care system. The TELUS Orca Student Bursary will provide financial aid and wraparound support to over 200 students across Canada, directly addressing a significant disparity in post-secondary education access. While many initiatives offer piecemeal assistance, this partnership aims for a holistic, long-term impact, recognizing that financial support is merely one piece of a larger puzzle.

For youth who have experienced the instability and trauma often associated with foster care, pursuing higher education can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Statistics paint a stark picture: youth from care are roughly half as likely to pursue post-secondary education compared to their peers. “The systemic barriers are immense,” explains a representative from a national child welfare advocacy group. “Lack of financial stability, inadequate support networks, and the emotional toll of past experiences all contribute to a cycle of disadvantage.” This new initiative seeks to disrupt that cycle, not just by alleviating financial burdens but also by providing the crucial wraparound services that are often missing.

Beyond the Dollar Sign: A Holistic Approach to Student Success

The TELUS Orca Student Bursary isn’t simply about writing cheques. It's built upon the foundation of the existing TELUS Student Bursary program, which already demonstrates a commitment to holistic support. Recipients will receive financial assistance, but also access to essential resources like internet and mobility through TELUS’s “Mobility and Internet for Good” programs. Recognizing the vital importance of mental well-being, the program will also provide access to TELUS Health Student Support, offering confidential counseling and mental health resources. Perhaps most critically, the partnership will leverage the Belonging Network’s expertise in supporting youth from care, providing networking opportunities and career development guidance.

The Belonging Network, formerly the Adoptive Families Association of BC, has a long-standing commitment to serving vulnerable youth.