Merit Award Bursary Program Incorporated

Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2H6 Canada

Mission Statement

Inspiring and providing financial support and personal development opportunities for youth to pursue higher education and contribute to the community. Our vision it to be a leading contributor of recognition and financial awards to senior secondary school students in high needs Greater Toronto Area schools, by providing: • incentives to youth of all abilities to pursue advancement through education; • incentives to youth to contribute to their community; • mentorship and networking opportunities; and • a powerful motivational tool which can be employed by educators and parents.

About This Cause

Established in 1995, directed by a volunteer board of 13, and supported by a volunteer community of over 150 active individuals, the Merit Award Bursary Program is a leading contributor of recognition and financial awards to senior secondary school students in high-needs Greater Toronto Area schools. Merit is committed to empowering youth of all abilities to pursue advancement through education and to contribute to their communities, through equitable access for those who do not have the required emotional and financial supports to succeed. Merit works closely with the Toronto District, Toronto Catholic District and Peel District school boards both in school selection and identification of eligible students. Merit is involved with 96 secondary schools in the GTA. Further expansion into Peel and Toronto will increase our eligible student base by 40% over the next 2 years. The award criteria are based on each students’ commitment to education and contribution to school, family and community. This award is more than a one-time financial bursary; recipients become part of a powerful support network. Through our alumni mentorship and volunteer programs, recipients have the opportunity to learn and refine future-ready skills and networking opportunities. Students need our help now more than ever. We know the need and social benefit of the Merit program is real. The need has been amplified by the impact of COVID-19. This year alone we received a record number of 743 applications. Through the generous donations of our donors we were able to grant 279 bursaries in 2023, the most awards to date. This year will be another challenging year and we will continue to be a strong support system for students. Thank you for your consideration.

Merit Award Bursary Program Incorporated
333 Bay Street, Suite 2400 2400 - 333 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2H6
Canada
Phone (416) 324-9000
Twitter @MeritAward
Unique Identifier 814537882RR0001