Dropping out affects us all.
It can limit a young person’s potential for the rest of their lives and it costs Canada billions in lost tax revenue, social assistance, and health care. There are currently more than 300,000 young people living in low-income communities across Canada, where students often face barriers to their educational success. These challenges are beyond their control and can make it harder for them to finish high school.
The Barriers
Financial
When students in low-income communities face financial instability, their whole life is affected. It’s a source of stress that affects what they plan to do in the short, medium and long-term. To help them stay focused on school, Pathways offers targeted financial supports like bus fare, food support, post-secondary scholarships and more.
“I was concerned about the cost [of university applications], but I learned I could use part of my Pathways scholarship. Pathways played a vital role in my transition from high school to university.”
–Arrththi, Pathways Scarborough Village alum
Academic
After-school tutoring is often unaffordable for families in low-income communities. So is the technology needed to complete homework and assignments, or the language lessons newcomer youth need just to keep up with school work. But that shouldn’t make high school graduation out of reach. Pathways’ academic supports include free weekly tutoring, summer language lessons, loaner technology and more.
“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.”
–Abdulrahman, Pathways Vancouver alum
Access to one-on-one supports
Some students living in low-income communities don’t have access to post-secondary education or career planning advice through their family. That’s why Pathways offers students access to one-on-one supports that lead to strong relationships with mentors and role models in their community.
“Every time we meet a youth, from the very beginning of the program, we check in around school. And then, we’ll talk about health, relationships, hopes and dreams. If you have the relationships, the rest falls into place.”
–Tyler, Pathways Vancouver staff
Social
Starting high school can be overwhelming, especially when it’s in a new language or culture. These challenges can get in the way of developing skills that youth will need later on. With social programming like field trips and career fairs, Pathways ensures students have access to opportunities to develop competencies like time management, leadership, communication, and more.
“Through lending a hand with activities, I was able to learn from many program planning professionals at Pathways.”
–Erum, Pathways Scarborough Village alum
Our Program
Creating Pathways
to Success
The award-winning Pathways to Education Program provides the supports youth need to overcome the barriers they face and graduate from high school. These supports include:
Tailored student plan
Tutoring
Social support
Mentoring
Financial support
Planning for life after school
Our future depends on their education.
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Take Action
Help #BuildPathways to success for all youth.
Together, we can make Canada a country where all youth have an equal opportunity to graduate from high school and build the foundation for their future success.