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Who Is Eligible for the LFYA Grant? A Guide for Youth and Young Adults

The Learning Fund for Young Adults (LFYA) is a valuable opportunity designed to support youth and young adults in British Columbia who have experienced care. If you're planning to participate in an educational, employment, training, or life-skills program, this one-time grant of $1,500 can help you achieve your goals. But who exactly is eligible for this grant? Let’s break down the criteria to see if you qualify.

Who Is the LFYA Grant For?

The LFYA grant is specifically designed for youth and young adults who meet the following criteria:

Age Requirements:

• Born on or after January 1, 2006: This means that as of the application date, you must be at least 17 years old but under the age of 36.

Care Experience:

• 12 Cumulative Months in Care: You must have accumulated a total of 12 cumulative months in one or more qualifying care statuses with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or an Indigenous Child and Family Service (ICFS) Agency from birth until your 19th birthday.

Qualifying Legal Statuses

To be eligible, your care experience must fall under one or more of the following legal statuses:

• Interim Custody Order (ICO): Custody to the director.
• Temporary Custody Order (TCO): Custody to the director.
• Continuing Custody Order (CCO): Permanent custody to the director.
• Under the Guardianship of a Director Pursuant to the Infants Act: Legal guardianship by the director.
• Under the Guardianship of the Director of Adoption Pursuant to the Adoption Act: Legal guardianship by the director of adoption.
• Interim Custody Order with a Person Other than a Parent: Custody to someone other than a parent.
• Temporary Custody Order with a Person Other than a Parent: Temporary custody to someone other than a parent.
• Youth Agreement (YAG): An agreement between a youth and the director for the provision of support.

Why You Should Apply Even If You’re Unsure

If you're not sure whether you meet the eligibility requirements, it's still worth applying. Your care history will be verified by Specialized Provincial Services (SPS) when you submit your application. This ensures that you won’t miss out on the grant due to uncertainty about your past legal status or time in care.

Encouraging Inclusivity

The LFYA grant is designed to be inclusive, encouraging all eligible youth and young adults to apply. Whether you’re planning to start a new educational journey, enhance your employment prospects, or develop vital life skills, this grant is here to support your ambitions.

Location Targeting: British Columbia

This grant is specifically for youth and young adults residing in British Columbia. Whether you’re in Vancouver, Victoria, Abbotsford, or any other part of BC, the LFYA grant is available to help you achieve your goals.