The deadline for the Jim Fay Music Scholarship for Youth has been extended until Oct. 31 because of a lack of applicants.
"Who knew giving away money could be difficult?" said Fay family friend Heather Corriveau, a teacher at Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton Catholic Secondary School.The unique aspect of the Jim Fay Scholarship for Youth is that it does not have to be spent on tuition for college or university, said Corriveau. The scholarship is open for youth 16 to 24 years of age, who are homeless or considered 'at risk.' Fay's wife Marie MacCormack was inspired to create the scholarship by not only her husband, but also the agency, Eva's Initiative, where she works. Eva's helps homeless and at-risk youth reach their potential to lead productive, self-sufficient and healthy lives. In Toronto, it operates three shelters, which house and feed more than 100 youth each night. Nationally, Eva's works to build innovative and long-term solutions to youth homelessness."When they start getting their life back on track, there's a shortage of scholarships and bursaries for them," said MacCormack. The Jim Fay Scholarship is geared toward those who would like to study traditional music - folk, blues or roots music. The applicant must have a reference letter from a teacher, social worker, parent or guardian, who can confirm he or she has an interest in music. It will be administered by Eva's Initiative, but not limited to Eva's clients. Fay endeared himself to traditional music fans, especially within his west-end neighbourhood where he played local pubs like Whelan's Gate and The Troubadour. "He was a sweet, talented, gentle soul, who loved playing music, writing music and performing music," said Corriveau. Fay, who hailed from Ireland, but moved to Toronto at age 10, passed away three years ago at 44. He died suddenly in October 2008 of a heart attack.Last year's recipient of the Jim Fay Music Scholarship for Youth bought herself a guitar. MacCormack called winner Chelsea Livingston, an aspiring musician, "a great" and "thoughtful young woman," who initially planned to purchase a laptop, but decided instead to buy the instrument. She has since recorded a few tracks for her first CD. If you know of anyone - or are someone who is between the ages of 16 and 24, who is or was homeless or 'at risk,' who live in the Greater Toronto Area and want to study or practice roots or traditional music, visit www.evasinitiatives.com for further details.