Education Access for Children and Youth – Ages 6 to 18

About Education Access (Tuition Assistance)

As a non-profit, READ is committed to providing professional and individualized instruction in reading, writing and mathematics to all children, regardless of their ability to pay a fee.

Education Access funding provides up to 10 months of individualized learning assistance for children and youth from low income households. Families contribute towards their child’s tuition according to what they can reasonably afford.

Since 1980, READ Education Access funding has provided over 1,810 students with the chance to learn and to develop confidence from their success.

To find out more about the programs your child will enjoy at READ, visit the Children and Youth program page.

How do I find out if I am I eligible?

• Education Access funding is for children and youth from low-income households 
• we use the Statistics Canada 2006 Tax Low Income Cut-off Line as a guideline, and base your eligibility on the income and expenses information you provide on the Education Access application
• those receiving Employment Insurance benefits, Workers’ Compensation or Income Assistance are usually eligible

Do I have to pay anything?

• each family is required to contribute, within their means, to their child’s monthly tuition at READ
• the amount is determined during an interview with READ’s Education Access staff

How do I apply?

• fill out an Education Access application package.  We will mail it to you or you can download it here (PDF ). The package includes program guidelines and an income and expense form for you to complete
• if you need help or have questions, call us at 250-388-7225
• mail, fax (250) 386-8330 or bring your completed application to 201-2631 Quadra St.

What happens next?

• we review your application to confirm your eligibility, and if you are eligible, we will add your child’s name to the waitlist
• you will receive written confirmation by mail
• we process applications in the order of the date we receive them. Because wait times vary and can be anywhere from two months to one year, we encourage you to apply right away

Do other organizations offer tuition assistance?

• to the best of our knowledge, the READ Society is the only local non-profit literacy organization offering tuition assistance  
• some service clubs, band offices and community centres in your area may help with tuition.  If they require information about READ, please have them contact us at 250-388-7225

Where can I go while I wait for services?

• ask your child’s teacher for information. Your child’s school may offer peer-tutoring or homework support
• the Greater Victoria Public Library hosts a Reading Buddies program that pairs teen volunteers with younger children for reading activities.  For more information, contact the Reading Buddies Hotline.

How is Education Access funded?

Education Access receives funding from private and corporate donations and proceeds from READ’s fundraising events. See our partners’ page for specific funders.