May 13, 2004

The province will provide a $150,000 endowment over three years to the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation. Advanced Education and Training minister Diane McGifford will announce this year’s $50,000 contribution while attending the second annual Helen Betty Osborne Gala at the Delta Hotel.

"The foundation was created in part to honour the memory of Helen Betty Osborne and to help Aboriginal students further their education and career aspirations," said McGifford. "The Province of Manitoba created the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation in December 2000. I am pleased to provide this new endowment to continue the positive legacy of Ms Osborne."

Helen Betty Osborne, a 19-year-old Aboriginal woman from Norway House First Nation, was murdered in 1971 in The Pas. As a tribute to Osborne and in recognition of her goal to be a teacher, the province established the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation.

All Aboriginal residents of Manitoba—First Nation, Metis and Inuit—enrolled in post-secondary studies are eligible to apply for the bursary awards administered by the foundation. The first bursaries were awarded in 2001. To date, the foundation has provided a total of $54,500 to 17 individuals.

"The memory of Helen Betty Osborne will assist the next generation of Aboriginal Manitobans to pursue their post-secondary studies and enter rewarding careers," said McGifford. "From a tragedy there have emerged many lessons and a gift of opportunity for the First Nation, Metis and Inuit people of Manitoba has emerged."

Tax-deductible donations may be made to the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation

235 – 405 Broadway, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3L6. Donations should be made payable to the Helen Betty Osborne Memorial Foundation. Award information can be obtained by visiting the foundation website at http://www.helenbettyosbornefdtn.ca

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