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A partnership for perseverance scholarships  

16 February 2026

The Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal and the National Theatre School of Canada join forces to support student perseverance

Montréal, February 17, 2026 — The Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal (SSVPM) and the National Theatre School of Canada (NTS) announce a partnership aimed at supporting theatre students facing economic challenges, in order to foster student perseverance and academic success.

As student financial insecurity remains a pressing issue in Québec, this collaboration addresses essential needs experienced by students engaged in a demanding training program, where financial constraints can become a barrier to continuing their studies.

A partnership to address essential needs

As part of this partnership, approximately fifty NTS students will be eligible each year for support measures offered by the SSVPM, including:

  • Monthly food baskets or grocery gift cards.

  • A 50% discount on all purchases at Chez Vincent thrift stores (clothing, accessories, furniture, and household items).

  • Two $500 student perseverance scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year, awarded to second-year students.

By easing certain pressures related to basic needs, this support aims to provide students with concrete relief, allowing them to focus fully on their academic journey.

Two scholarships awarded in January 2026

In this context, two student perseverance scholarships were awarded on January 28 to Evelyne Bracco and Shea Spafford, second-year students at the National Theatre School of Canada, in recognition of their determination and commitment.

These scholarships are part of Opération Bonne Mine, the student perseverance program of the Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal active since 1994, and illustrate the organization’s long-standing commitment to supporting youth educational perseverance.

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QUOTES

“No one’s academic success should ever be compromised by financial constraints. For more than 30 years, the Opération Bonne Mine student perseverance program has worked to ensure that students can pursue their studies with dignity. This partnership with the National Theatre School allows us to take tangible action to support a new generation fully invested in their education and future.”

Marie-Mathilde Gay-Degardin, Director of Assistance Programs, Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal.

“Thanks to the partnership with the Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal, our students can continue their studies with greater peace of mind, despite sometimes complex financial realities. This essential support, which combines concrete assistance with recognition of perseverance, directly contributes to the success and fulfillment of the next generation of artists.”

Geneviève Déry, Chief Executive Officer, Philanthropy Department, National Theatre School of Canada.

About the Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal

Founded in 1868, the Société de Saint-Vincent de Paul of Montréal is a secular charitable organization active in Montréal, Laval, and the MRC de L’Assomption. Supported by the commitment of hundreds of volunteers, it assists people in vulnerable situations through concrete actions grounded in listening, respect, and human dignity. The organization works to promote autonomy and social integration, notably through food assistance, its Opération Bonne Mine student perseverance program, and access to basic necessities. Learn more: ssvp-mtl.org

About the National Theatre School of Canada

Founded in 1960, the National Theatre School of Canada (NTS) is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, marking more than six decades of outstanding contribution to the country’s artistic and cultural development. It remains the largest theatre training institution in Canada, in both French and English, and continues to train actors, directors, playwrights, designers, and production specialists whose talent shines on national and international stages. The School also offers a range of community programs that promote access to theatre for all.

Media contact:
Axelle Enet, Director of Communications
514-526-5937 ext. 122
communication@ssvp-mtl.org

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