The Bright Beginnings Foundation Fund has been established to help some of Surrey's most vulnerable young adults see a bright future.

People facing financial hardship every day are challenged by many barriers to success. Society’s stereotypes, as well as a lack of understanding about how to fix this complex problem are just two of the obstacles. However, people living in poverty can, like everybody else, achieve big dreams and strive for excellence if we meet them where they are and link them to support networks. Research clearly states that making a strong connection with disadvantaged students will break through the poverty barriers. Bright Beginnings Foundation provides students with post-secondary tuition, student fees and educational materials. This Foundation will truly make a difference for students and their families who live in poverty.

According to Statistics Canada Census 2020, Surrey is a community where over 10% of the population are living with low-income. However, in one Surrey neighbourhood, well over 40% of the children face financial challenges every day. 

The majority of these youth will never be given the break that is necessary to change their circumstances. They will live in poverty their entire lives. The only hope for most of these people is to obtain a job that will provide them with more than just a minimum wage. In our society, a post secondary degree is important for someone wanting to earn a Living Wage.

Bright Beginnings Foundation (BBF) was launched in March 2015 to support high school graduates in Surrey who are living in poverty, and who possess the academic ability but lack the financial means to pursue a post-secondary education.

BBF believes that everyone deserves to live a poverty-free life. We level the playing field so that Surrey high-school graduates, regardless of family income, have an equal opportunity to attend a public post-secondary institution and program of their choosing. BBF is working to eliminate generational poverty in families by providing full tuition, student fees (including Medical and Dental) and educational materials, such as laptops or tools of the trade.   

Having a post-secondary education means that they are able to obtain a degree or certification which will allow them to acquire a career that pays a living wage and benefits. This opportunity not only helps the students that benefit, but also potentially their families and our community at large.