End poverty in all its forms everywhere
Research
Centre for Research on Health Equity and Social Inclusion
The Centre for Research on Health Equity and Social Inclusion is leading the evaluation of London’s Health & Homelessness Whole of Community System Response, a cross-sector initiative addressing chronic homelessness through integrated health and housing supports. The Centre's research focuses on outcomes for unhoused individuals, the well-being of frontline workers, systemic processes, and the effectiveness of community collaboration. This work informs policy and practice, contributing to sustainable solutions for homelessness in London.
London Poverty Research Centre
Teaching
Ivey’s 39 Country Initiative
Housed in the International Business Institute, the 39 Country Initiative now supports faculty in 46 of the world’s least developed countries by providing free access to Ivey Publishing’s full catalogue of over 7,300 business cases, exercises, and technical notes. Over 2,000 professors have registered to use these resources, significantly enhancing the reach of high-quality management education.
This initiative also tracks the global distribution of physical books through an interactive map of shipments and collection points.
Anti-Poverty Education Course
The Master of Professional Education program offers an Anti-Poverty Education Course that delves into the significant impact of poverty on educational access and academic achievement. It addresses broader themes of social class and economic disparities, providing a framework to understand class privilege and its effects on teaching and learning. Students engage with organizations that assist economically disadvantaged groups and explore partnerships with community initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty.
Financial Literacy Workshop Series
Money Talks @ Western U program delivers free workshops on financial literacy aimed at empowering students with essential money management skills. These workshops cover crucial areas like budgeting, banking, credit usage, and planning for educational expenses and life after graduation. The program seeks to instill responsible financial behaviours that prevent economic hardship and stress, providing students with the tools to navigate their financial future. The importance of financial literacy is especially highlighted by the inclusion of this program on the Western co-curricular record.
Outreach
Western United Way Campaign
Western’s United Way campaign aims to strengthen communities through donations and volunteerism. In 2024, it raised over $572,000 for United Way Elgin Middlesex, becoming one of the largest university campaigns nationally and the top contributor in the region.
Purple Hands
Purple Hands is a homeless advocacy organization run by students at Western University. They organize annual events such as Purple Hands Winter Outreach, World Homeless Action Day, and Halloween For Hunger to support the homeless by distributing essential items and collecting food for donation to food banks.
UNICEF Western
As an official branch of UNICEF Canada, UNICEF at Western raises awareness of global issues affecting children, including poverty, inequality, and access to education. Through events, outreach, and educational campaigns, the club empowers students to take action and support the well-being of children worldwide.
Operations
Western University Financial Aid Overview 2024-25
Learn more: Western University Financial Aid Overview 2024-25
Local Startup Assistance
Western supports local entrepreneurship through funding, mentorship, and training for students and community members. Programs like the Western Accelerator and Morrissette Institute promote business ideas that prioritize social impact, responsible consumption, and climate action. Dedicated spaces like the Ronald D. Schmeichel Building and events such as Western Angels’ Demo Day connect entrepreneurs with investors, industry leaders, and the tools needed to scale their ventures.
Bursaries and Work Study
Western has multiple bursaries and funding opportunities:
- The Bursary Program supports students from low-income families by helping them overcome financial and food insecurity for academic success. It covers expenses like tuition, housing, and textbooks.
- The Work Study program provides part-time on-campus jobs that equip students with valuable work experience and training, supporting both their studies and university staff.
- Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) offers financial aid through grants and loans to college and university students.
