A program to help access up to $3,200 in government education funding is open to Chilliwack families.
It’s called the Future Bright Program, and is set up by Vancouver’s Elizabeth Fry Society. It includes step-by-step assistance from staff through the process of applying for RESPs.
Those who want to learn more are also being invited to a free online information session hosted by the Chilliwack Financial Literacy Committee as part of the Money for Living series.
The committee is encouraging Chilliwack families to learn more. There are many facts that people may not be aware of, they say. For example, families don’t need to contribute any money to an RESP. And according to research, children with dedicated savings are three times more likely to attend post-secondary and four times more likely to graduate.
For those who enrol with Future Bright, staff there will help guide with accessing the grants every step of the way, including getting missing documentation like birth certificates, SIN numbers, and even income tax filing support.
There are three online workshops at the end of the month allow families to hear all about the program, but anyone can call the Future Bright number (604-520-1166) anytime to start the process.
Information sessions will be held Nov. 24 from noon to 2 p.m., Nov. 26 from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Register by calling 604-520-1166 or emailing futurebright@elizabethfry.com
Or you can just call 604-520-1166 to connect with staff who are ready with one-on-one help.
In addition, for a limited time, EFry is offering a $50 Walmart gift card, along with contributing matching funds when an RESP is opened, effectively tripling the value – all for free. There is a common belief that families must also contribute to the RESP - the Future Bright program aims to make sure people are fully informed, so they don’t miss opportunities for their children.
The Future Bright program is funded by the federal government (Employment and Social Development Canada) and so the advice and information provided by Future Bright staff is unbiased and does not promote any business, bank or credit union.
READ MORE: Financial literacy program expands across the Fraser Valley
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