May 9, 2017

U of T Helps Moms Pursue Higher Education

Faculty & Staff
Nasifa Kaair, Lorraine Roswell, Souad, Marie Cormier, and Chara Benson (RMM teacher)

For mothers without a high school diploma, higher education can seem like an impossible dream – and the effects of poverty on health are well documented. That’s why a Faculty of Medicine official helped welcome more than 50 moms to campus May 9 to learn that their dream could become a reality.

from left: Nasifa Khair, Lorraine Roswell, Souad, Marie Cormier, and Chara Benson (RMM teacher)

The second annual Role Model Moms Post-Secondary Academy, hosted at Hart House, was an inspiring field trip for participants of the Toronto City Mission’s Role Model Moms program. The program gives mothers the academic knowledge, confidence, and life skills necessary to pass the high school equivalency exam.

Representatives from U of T, Humber College, Centennial College, Ryerson University, and the City of Toronto offered information about support and resources available to people looking to further their education.

“We’re excited to welcome and inspire women who might otherwise feel that college or university are out of reach,” says Roxanne Wright, Community Health Placement Officer at U of T’s Faculty of Medicine.  “Higher education can be within everyone’s grasp. This event is one way we can help ensure that is realized by all.”

Almost half of Canadian-born students living in lower-income neighbourhoods don’t pursue higher education due to lack of information, money, child care and support.

To address these barriers, participants connected with other student moms who successfully navigated the opaque process of becoming a first-generation post-secondary student.