Thompson Rivers University is announcing new financial aid for first-year students due to unforeseen financial challenges they may be facing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The university hopes to raise $50,000 to provide up to 100 first-year students with additional tuition support through the First-Year Student Resiliency Fund. It says the TRU Foundation will match up to $25,000 donated to the fund and the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work, Airini, will donate another $10,000.
“One thing I’ve learned from living in Kamloops is that we give however we can and together, our help adds up to something big,” said Dean Airini, in a statement.
“COVID-19 has affected so many in our communities. TRU offers one way forward, preparing students to be active community members and genuine leaders. If there was ever a time to recognize the potential and resilience of our future students, it is now. We don’t want their pace to slow.”
TRU estimates the cost of education and accommodation for the average undergraduate student total about $20,000 a year, with limited financial support available for new students. It says students who are in dire financial need or unable to take on debt, non-traditional learners, and people who are the first in their family to attend post-secondary school are especially vulnerable and risk postponing their education because of COVID-19.
“Many students rely on summer savings and part-time work during the school year and both of those opportunities are significantly diminished,” added Gordon Down, director of Student Awards & Financial Aid.
“Awards supported by donors are a tangible indication for students that someone cares about their educational journey and is using their own money to invest in them.”
People who are looking to donate are asked to do so before August 31 so that the money is available ahead of the fall term. You can do so at here.