In 2004, the idea of creating a Charitable Foundation for the Association was raised by then CCSTA President Bernakevitch. After two years of discussion and design, followed by applying for governmental approval, the CCSTA Charitable Foundation became a reality in 2006. The main purpose of this charitable foundation was to assist students in paying their tuition to attend Catholic schools in those provinces in Canada with limited or no public funding. In 2006, at the St. John’s Convention, the CCSTA membership approved the Toonies for Tuition campaign as the official fundraiser to support the Charitable Foundation.
The Charitable Foundation is an official Canadian charity with all the rights, privileges and responsibilities accorded to such enterprises. The Endowment Fund Committee makes all decisions in the distribution of funds to students on an annual basis. Although established and approved by the CCSTA Board of Directors, the Endowment Fund Committee operates at arms-length from the Board, as required by legislation. The Committee consists of four provincial members from provinces with full funding – Alberta/NWT/Yukon, Saskatchewan and Ontario, as well as the CCSTA Executive Director (Ontario). Since its inception, CCSTA has received over 600 student requests amounting to over $1,250,000. Since it’s inception, CCSTA has distributed over $366,000 in tuition assistance.
Endowment fund applications are due on March 31st every year. Schools are notified in June.