For the Edmonton Catholic Schools Foundation, the 2022-2023 school year has been one of bridging gaps for students and families within the Edmonton Catholic School Division community, primarily those who are socially vulnerable. The Foundation’s work has focused on supporting the stability and success of ECSD children and youth, giving them the ‘hand-up’ they may desperately need. 

Over the past school year, the Foundation’s Dreams for Kids campaign disbursed a grand total of $498,719.00 across the Division. This came in the form of 138 grants, impacting nearly 19,000 students and community members. 

Some specific grants over the past year include: 

• Purchase of resources, such as a specialized walker, glasses, and hearing aids, for poverty-stricken students in need 
• Sponsored 1,059,000 snacks/meals across 25 high-needs schools, which will support 5,075 students in 2023 
• Emergency rent and food support for recent Ukrainian refugees 
• Subsidized numerous schools in attending Inquiring Minds educational excursions  
• Sponsored CAAWLS wellness animals sessions for children experiencing anxiety, stress, and learning issues 

The Foundation gratefully acknowledges the valuable partnership and support of the Edmonton Catholic School Division. It is the Foundation’s hope in the 2023-2024 school year to work closer with ECSD in making the dreams of students come true. By changing one child’s life at a time, enhancing their ability to hope and dream, and by being a resource that school staff can turn to, the Foundation hopes to continue making a difference in the ECSD community.  

To learn more about the Edmonton Catholic Schools Foundation, visit ecsfoundation.ca