The Polly Scott Bursary honours the contributions the BC Women’s Institute has made to the creation and sustainability of Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island and their long standing support of children with disabilities and health challenges. The bursary is named in tribute to one of the first children served at the original Queen Alexandra Solarium in Mill Bay— Othoa “Polly” Scott.

The bursary will provide financial assistance to youth or young adults between the ages of 17 and 25 with a diagnosed disability or on-going health challenge to undertake or continue their post-secondary education in an accredited post-secondary institution in Canada. The bursary may be used to cover tuition, books, and living expenses for students unable to live at home. The candidate may be pursuing a degree or diploma in any field of study.

The total amount of bursary per candidate can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per year. The annual amount awarded will depend on a number of factors including specific costs and course load. A candidate may be awarded a bursary for a maximum of four years, with renewals after year one depending on the candidate’s performance in the previous year. The total amount for any individual candidate over a four year period is $8,000.

Learn more about how to apply and selection criteria by visiting the Polly Scott Bursary web page.