The gap between students in low-income communities and their education is growing.

Help them graduate from high school.

Your donation will help close the gap between high school students and their education, so they can stay in school, graduate, continue their post-secondary learning, and succeed.

What is the gap?

High school dropout rates in low-income communities across Canada can be more than double the national average. Youth living in these communities face increased barriers to education that can stand in the way of graduating. 

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Financial Barriers

Youth in low-income households are more likely to leave school early. They may struggle to pay for food, school supplies, and transportation. Some may also require additional support, like after-school tutoring, but are unable to afford these services. Others struggle to cover the application fees for post-secondary education or training. 

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Social Barriers

Many youth lack access to networks that will mentor their talent, offer support, and inspire them to succeed. Others have additional responsibilities that stand in the way of their education, like caring for younger siblings. And some may be struggling with transitioning to high school and belonging to a new community and culture. 

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Academic Barriers

Some students have limited access to the educational resources they need to succeed. This could mean limited access to tools and technology. Or they may not speak English or French at home and, as a consequence, may not have the necessary family support to complete homework or review course work. 

With your support, we will close the gap for students in low-income communities.

Your donation can help students like Riely

“My first day there, I met Darlene, who is the Program Director, and for meeting a complete stranger, she had the biggest smile on her face. Ever since I met her, I knew that I was going to enjoy the program.”

Pathways provided Riely with a space where he felt like he belonged—and over the years, his relationship with Pathways grew stronger. 

Read more about Riely’s story. 

Your donation can help students like Abdulrahman

“It’s difficult to fit in when you don’t understand the language. Pathways really helped. I did my English homework during tutoring sessions, and I could practice speaking during social activities.” 

When Abdulrahman’s family left his home country of Syria to build a new life in Canada, he was able to find support through the Pathways Program.  

Read more about Abdulrahman’s story. 

Your donation can help students like Audrey-Ann

“Pathways played a role in my day-to-day life. Having access to snacks and knowing I wouldn’t go hungry even if my lunch box was empty was really important to me.” 

Having a safe place to do homework and socialize with peers during high school inspired Audrey-Ann to pursue a career in youth programming. 

Read more about Audrey-Ann’s story. 

How we’re helping to close the gap

When you support the award-winning Pathways to Education Program, you’re helping young people across Canada. Our holistic combination of academic, financial, social, and one-on-one supports is proven to remove barriers to graduation and empower students to succeed. 

  • Through tutoring and tailored study plans, Pathways tutors and staff keep students on track with their studies. They also help youth stick to healthy routines and build habits that support learning. 
  • Pathways provides students with both short- and long-term financial supports, like lunch vouchers, transit passes, and scholarships for post-secondary education or training. 
  • Pathways staff connect students with mentors who can provide career guidance and advice. Pathways mentors are professionals in various fields, providing youth with valuable industry knowledge and giving them opportunities to build a network that can help them beyond high school. 
  • Personalized support from a Pathways staff member ensures that all students have a trusted adult they can turn to for advice or guidance throughout their high school journey. 

    Our network of volunteers, staff members, and alumni grows every day with your support. Together, we can continue to have a transformative impact on young people, their communities, and our collective future.

    How you can help

    Close the gap and help students in low-income communities graduate from high school.

    Donate today.

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