Overview
The Cathy Lane Goodfellow Empowerment Fund is a financial support programme designed to assist individuals living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), as well as their caregivers and families, within the Calgary Area.
The fund aims to reduce financial barriers and promote stability, inclusion, and personal development by covering essential non-core expenses that improve quality of life and long-term outcomes for people affected by FASD.
Purpose of the Fund
The fund exists to empower individuals and families impacted by FASD by providing timely, flexible financial assistance.
It focuses on needs that are often not eligible for traditional funding but are critical for daily functioning, independence, and well-being.
What the Fund Supports
The Cathy Lane Goodfellow Empowerment Fund provides support for a wide range of non-core needs, including:
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Non-core educational costs
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School or learning supplies
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Tutoring and academic support
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Employment readiness and job-related expenses
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Health and wellness needs
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Cultural and community-based supports
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Respite care for caregivers
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Housing-related expenses
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Identification and documentation costs
Funding is intended to supplement, not replace, other available financial supports.
Funding Amount and Limits
Successful applicants may receive:
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Up to $750 per calendar year
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Funding period runs from January to December
Applicants may submit more than one application within the same year, provided the total approved funding does not exceed the annual limit of $750.
How and When Funds Must Be Used
Approved grants must be:
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Fully used within the quarter in which they are awarded
Applicants are encouraged to apply only when the requested support is not available through other funding sources.
Who Is Eligible?
The fund is open to:
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Individuals living with FASD
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Caregivers of individuals living with FASD
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Families supporting a person with FASD
Applicants must be based in the Calgary Area.
Priority Consideration
Priority is given to:
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Individuals or families who have not previously received funding from the programme
Applicants who are not approved are welcome to re-apply at a later date.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted at any time during the calendar year, subject to available funds.
Applicants should apply only when they have a clear, immediate need that aligns with the fund’s supported categories.
Key Application Considerations
Applicants should be prepared to explain:
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The specific expense or activity requiring support
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Why other funding sources are not available
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How the requested support will benefit the individual or family
Incomplete or unclear applications may delay review or approval.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying for costs already covered by other funding programmes.
Requesting funding that exceeds the annual limit of $750.
Applying too early without a clear plan for using the funds within the required quarter.
Failing to clearly link the request to the needs of an individual living with FASD.
Why This Fund Matters
Individuals and families affected by FASD often face ongoing and unexpected expenses that are not supported by mainstream funding systems.
The Cathy Lane Goodfellow Empowerment Fund fills this critical gap by offering flexible, responsive support that improves access to education, health, employment, and daily living resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much funding can I receive each year?
You may receive up to $750 per calendar year, from January to December.
Can I apply more than once in a year?
Yes. Multiple applications are allowed, as long as the total approved amount does not exceed $750.
Who gets priority for funding?
Priority is given to applicants who have not previously received funding from the programme.
What happens if my application is not approved?
Unsuccessful applicants may re-apply at a later date.
How quickly must the funds be used?
All approved funds must be fully used within the quarter in which they are awarded.
Can caregivers apply on behalf of someone with FASD?
Yes. Caregivers and families are eligible to apply on behalf of individuals living with FASD.
Does the fund cover core education or tuition?
No. The fund focuses on non-core education and related supports rather than tuition or core academic fees.
Conclusion
The Cathy Lane Goodfellow Empowerment Fund offers meaningful financial support to individuals and families living with FASD in the Calgary Area.
By covering essential non-core needs and promoting flexibility, the fund helps reduce financial stress, strengthen support systems, and improve long-term outcomes for those affected by FASD.
For more information, visit Calgary Fetal Alcohol Network.
