Hastings Education Fund (HEF)
For young people living in regional areas, there are greater costs in pursuing post school education and vocation opportunities. Our local Education and Skills Forum, made up of representatives from our local schools, TAFE, universities, other training providers and Mid Coast Connect, heard about CEFA and with the help of Mid Coast CONNECTS Partnership Broker, Sarah Green, set about creating our own local chapter.
CEFA is a national not-for-profit organisation that provides financial assistance for regional and rural youth so that they may be able to achieve their post high school education, training and vocational goals. This is done by establishing local foundations across regional Australia which become incorporated as members of CEFA.
Assistance comes in the form of non-cash grants, which typically range in value from $500 - $3,000. The local fund pays the goods and service providers or reimburses the student for the pre-arranged expense once an official receipt has been provided.
Grants could be used for tools of the trade (for an Apprentice), course fees, text books, accommodation or a fuel card that enables a distance student to attend face to face classes.
Grants are not awarded on academic success; rather recipients are selected on the same 3 criteria;
1. That the applicant has a realistic goal
2. That they have shown dedication to achieving their goal
3. And that they are in need of financial assistance to be able to achieve the goal.
Our local foundation was formed on the 28th March and is called the Hastings Education Fund. The committee is made up of a cross section of people in our community who are passionate about providing opportunities for our youth to achieve their dreams. They strongly believe that by communities investing in their youth, recipients gain a strong message that their community believes in them and is supportive of their aspirations. It’s a tremendous boost to a young person’s confidence, right when they need it most.
The Hastings Education Fund will be looking for support from local businesses to sponsor or donate to the Fund as well as actively fundraising.
If you would like to know more about the Hastings Education Fund go to: www.cef.org.au where you will find our local fund details including a contact person, how to donate and a copy of the grant application form.
Partnership Members
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
TAFE NSW North Coast Institute - Port Macquarie Campus
Partnership News
Youth fund is born - Port News, 11 May 2011
Education foundation forms - Wauchope Gazette, 4 May 2011
Financial support to help youth achieve eduational goals - Camden Haven Courier, 7 April 2011