Role of the CFUW Surrey/White Rock Bursary Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The CFUW Surrey/White Rock Bursary Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the CFUW White Rock/Surrey club dedicated to financial support for women’s post‑secondary education. Operating in the communities of Surrey, White Rock and Langley in British Columbia, it provides needs‑based bursaries to local women who are pursuing further education, including trades training, diploma programs and university or college degrees. The foundation focuses on applicants who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents and who demonstrate both financial need and clear educational goals.
Types of support and target beneficiaries
Each year, the foundation awards multiple bursaries, typically in the range of several thousand dollars, to help offset the costs of tuition and related educational expenses. Recent cycles have included three bursaries of approximately $3,000, alongside named awards created by club members and supporters. The program is intentionally inclusive of non‑traditional students and a variety of career paths, from health sciences and nursing to other professional and technical fields. Priority is given to women from the local area who might otherwise face financial barriers to completing their studies.
Application process and general criteria
The downloadable application form outlines a structured process: candidates provide personal and family information, a record of past schooling, details of their current post‑secondary program, and a concise financial summary demonstrating their level of need. Supporting documents include academic transcripts, proof of acceptance or registration as a full‑time student, and a short written statement covering background, financial circumstances, volunteer service, work history, achievements and interests. Applications must be mailed in hard copy to the foundation’s post office box in Surrey by a clearly stated annual deadline.
Community connections and funding sources
The Bursary Foundation is closely integrated into CFUW White Rock/Surrey’s broader community‑service activities. Funds are raised through donations from members and external donors, club fundraising initiatives such as recycling returns, and other local projects. The foundation reports annually on the number of bursaries awarded and highlights the achievements of recipients, many of whom are engaged in health care, community service or other fields that benefit the region. This approach reinforces CFUW’s wider mission of advancing education, equity and the status of women while providing tangible financial support.