Family Breakdown Review

To be considered for a family breakdown review, submit one of the following to your Financial Aid Office:

• Written documentation from a third party professional who was directly involved with the family breakdown situation (e.g., court reports; letters from police, social agencies, and/or shelters, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, or physicians). This documentation must include the contact information for the third party, including the telephone number, address, and the signature of the third party, or
• If a professional third party was not involved, written documentation from other reliable third parties who were directly involved with the situation (e.g., siblings, grandparents, other relatives). This documentation must include the contact information for the third party, including the telephone number, address, and the signature of the third party.

In addition, you must also submit the following:

• A letter written by you detailing the rift in your family. This letter should include:
• The date of the final rift with your parent(s),
• If the rift is with both parents, the date you left home and how you have supported yourself since leaving home,
• Any steps you have taken to correct the situation,
• Whether there is any possibility of reconciliation.
• If the rift is with both parents, proof of your separate residence (e.g., copy of a lease or rental agreement).

A letter from your parent(s) is not required. However, in situations where only one parent was involved in the rift, you may be asked to provide a letter from the parent who is not directly involved in the rift.

If you are receiving support under the Youth Without Shelter, Stay in School Program, you are only required to provide a third-party letter from the program identifying that you are living in the shelter provided by the program and receiving basic living supports while in school.

For more information and assistance with completing this review, contact your Financial Aid Office.