Role of World Student Christian Federation Canada in the funding ecosystem
World Student Christian Federation Canada is a national fundraising and granting body created to support the global work of the World Student Christian Federation and its Canadian member, the Student Christian Movement of Canada. Through the Lois Freeman Wilson Fund, launched in 2021, it channels donations into small but strategic grants that enable Canadian youth and students to take part in global ecumenical and interfaith experiences that shape future church and community leaders.
General eligibility and typical grants
The organization focuses its financial support on Canadian students and young adults who wish to attend international conferences, learning tours, retreats and other faith-based encounters. Priority is given to applicants who are actively involved in a faith community—congregational, campus or community-based—and who can show how their participation connects to their ongoing engagement and how they will share their learning afterwards. Additional priority is placed on events organized within the SCM and WSCF networks, while still welcoming other qualifying initiatives.
Grants usually range from CAD 300 to 500 and are designed to cover only part of overall travel and participation costs. Applicants are expected to demonstrate other sources of support, including personal contributions, so that the fund can reach a larger number of participants. Funding calls are held twice a year, with application deadlines on April 15 and December 15, followed by disbursements a few months later.
Reporting, impact and stories
Recipients commit to submitting a report on their experience and to allowing WSCF Canada to share their reflections. These narratives are published as impact stories, documenting participation in pilgrimages to the Holy Land, interfaith learning tours, human rights gatherings and other international events. Through this reporting, the organization highlights how relatively modest bursaries can broaden horizons, deepen theological reflection and strengthen solidarity across borders.
Governance and partnerships
Established in 2007 under the leadership of Lois Wilson as a Canadian fundraising entity, WSCF Canada works closely with SCM Canada, the global WSCF, and church partners. It relies on donations, including via CanadaHelps and mailed cheques, and is run by volunteers who steward the fund and oversee the selection of grantees, ensuring transparent and mission-driven use of resources.