THUNDER BAY — Both NOSM and Lakehead universities are inviting the public to participate in Giving Tuesday.
Giving Tuesday is a global celebration that encourages people to support their communities and perform acts of kindness.
As the medical school approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, this year's Giving Tuesday campaign will focus on the 2009 Charter Class Bursary to help alleviate the financial burden on future medical students.
“Financial barriers for MD students in the North are something we can tackle together,” said Dr. Michael Green, president and vice-chancellor, dean and chief executive officer of NOSM, in a news release. “Helping to offset the tuition of a deserving Northern MD student will help to strengthen the health-care workforce in the North and, over time, improve access to care for all. I hope we can count you in.”
The university says 91 per cent of MD students at NOSM have come from Northern Ontario since the school first opened and students graduate with about twice the debt as peers from medical schools across Canada.
To learn more about Giving Tuesday and how you can support the 2009 NOSM Charter Class Bursary, please visit the NOSM University Giving Tuesday website or contact the university’s development office at advancement@nosm.ca.
Lakehead University is also asking for support for its Giving Tuesday campaign, also focused on student finanical aid.
Since 2006, more than $1.7 million has been raised through the campaign and has created 20 new student awards and supported dozens of scholarships and bursaries.
Many Lakehead students face financial challenges that impact their ability to pursue higher education, said Michael den Haan, vice-president of university advancement.
“Your generosity removes financial barriers for students and opens doors to education and opportunity allowing students to achieve their academic and career goals," he said in a news release. “Thank you to our alumni, friends and supporters who come together to make a lasting impact on the lives of our students.”
The first $50,000 raised through Giving Tuesday this year, will be matched by the Alumni Association of Lakehead University for any new gifts received in support of student financial aid.
“Giving Tuesday showcases the strength and generosity of our Lakehead community, living and working all over the world,” said Paul Popo-Ola, president of the Alumni Association of Lakehead University. “Together, we can ensure students receive the support they need to thrive and succeed.”
To donate visit donate.lakeheadu.ca.
