Since its inception in 2014, the Medway Student Support Fund has disbursed over £500,000 in bursaries to 345 students, extending a lifeline to many from Medway who are facing extreme financial hardship. This remarkable achievement, however, is just the beginning of a much larger story.
The Fund’s journey started with the vision of a generous anonymous donor who wished to bring a brighter future to the students of Medway through education. This vision is shared and honoured by all three institutions at the Medway campus (University of Kent, University of Greenwich, and Canterbury Christ Church University). Together, the institutions have worked tirelessly to maximise the Fund’s impact by identifying individuals who need it most and finding efficient ways to disburse support.
In the 2022/23 academic year, the Medway Student Support Fund disbursed £78,350 to 83 students who would have struggled to continue their university education without this critical assistance. It’s stories like these that remind us of the profound impact the Fund has on countless lives.
“As a member of the Board, I have seen firsthand how these funds have changed the lives of so many students at Medway. The stories of students who have been able to stay in higher education to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world as a result of this Fund are truly inspiring,” said Alison Mansell.
One beneficiary aptly stated, “If I have nothing, my children have nothing.” The Fund bestowed upon them the gift of education and the ability to put food on their table, heat their home, and clothe their children.
For the 2023/24 academic year, we aim to disburse £90,000 to students who might otherwise have to drop out of university due to financial difficulties. However, the rising cost of living has had a profound impact on numerous lives, especially students who are constrained in their ability to work due to academic commitments. As a result, there is an increasing demand for financial assistance among students, and this demand exceeds the capacity of the Medway Student Support Fund to accommodate all those in need.
This is where we turn to our alumni and supporters, seeking your help during these challenging times. Your support can transform lives and make a difference that resonates for generations to come.
How You Can Make a Difference:
- A monthly gift of £15 for three years can provide a partial IT bursary to a student, enabling them to repair their IT equipment and fulfill their studies from any location, at any time.
- Consider one-time donations or other forms of support that fit your preferences and capacity.
Together, we can elevate Medway’s next generation and make a profound impact on countless lives. Your contribution ensures that students don’t just survive; they thrive, securing their own futures and, in turn, the futures of their families. Join us in this remarkable journey by supporting the Medway Student Support Fund and be a part of the life-changing legacy it continues to build.