Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation drives students to graduation
Lending a helping hand
With the costs of gas and food rising during their final semester, students at NSCC's Cumberland Campus and Amherst Learning Centre felt the strain. As their work placements are required for graduation, many worried about whether or not they'd be able to afford transportation to and from work - a reality that many people living in rural communities face.
Thankfully with the support of community donors like the Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation, the College was able to assist students in getting to their placements by purchasing and distributing $4,000 in gas gift cards to the students in need of the support.
“The thing that was so difficult is that you plan for a few contingencies because costs change even in a normal year,” says Dan M., a student on work placement who received a gas gift card. “After gas went up 35 cents, it changed my gas costs by 40 dollars a week. I was on Employment Insurance during my studies, so I didn’t have a ton of extra income. 40 dollars a week was a lot for me.”
The generosity of the Dr. & Mrs. H.E. Christie Community Foundation supported many students like Dan in the final stretch of their program, making it possible to reach graduation.
Endless gratitude among students
“I hope the donors know that it makes a massive impact on a lot of our lives… it’s truly appreciated,” said Dan. He continues to mention the effect it had on his classmates with greater needs than him by driving further distances for work or having children to care for. He is thankful for the support he and his classmates received when they needed it.
“The Dr. & Mrs. H. E. Christie Community Foundation recognizes the importance of the educational opportunities provided by NSCC and is pleased to support the students attending the Cumberland campus programs,” said David H. Christie, Chair, Dr. & Mrs. H. E. Christie Community Foundation.
To support students at NSCC further, donate online today or reach out to the Foundation at for more information.