Life Interrupted

“I remember times where I would just cry because I was so hungry,” Tessa recalls.  Enduring considerable emotional abuse and neglect for much of her childhood, Tessa accepted at a young age that homelessness could one day be a part of her life. 

When Tessa’s school counsellors realized her situation, they encouraged her to apply for the Burns Memorial Fund, a foundation supported by United Way, which works to enhance the education, health and well-being of young Calgarians. With the bursary, Tessa was given the financial assistance she needed to pay for basic needs, such as food and rent, as well as educational fees, so she could stay in school and focus on graduating.

Tessa says while her world was falling apart, the supports she received from United Way community agencies allowed her to stay in school and kept her pointed in the right direction.  She now attends Alberta College of Art and Design and hopes to pursue a career in photography. Her hard work and dedication awarded her two scholarships to help pay for her books and tuition fees.

Tessa is one of many Calgarians who have been helped through United Way. More than 200 programs city-wide are supported by gifts from people just like you. Thank you for making someone’s life a little brighter.

 “I was given a future to look forward to and I finally know what stability (is) like”

United Way of Calgary and Area invests in 58 programs and initiatives like the Burns Memorial Fund that focus on creating a better future for children and youth. We are committed to helping kids be all that they can be and ensure a successful transition into a healthy & productive adulthood.