Mardi Gras is all about colour, music, community, and joy. From lively parades and shared meals to beads, masks, and moments of indulgence, the celebration invites us to enjoy life, connect with others, and embrace abundance. At its core, Mardi Gras is also about balance—celebrating the present while preparing for what comes next. That same spirit can inspire families to think about their children’s futures, including planning for education.
One meaningful way to do that is through the Canada Learning Bond (CLB). The CLB is a federal program that helps children from low-income families save for education after high school. Eligible children can receive up to $2,000 from the Government of Canada, deposited directly into a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). Best of all, families do not need to contribute their own money to receive the bond—opening an RESP is all it takes to get started.
Mardi Gras is often associated with abundance and generosity, and the Canada Learning Bond reflects those same values. It’s an investment in possibility, ensuring that more young people have the chance to pursue post-secondary education, whether that’s college, university, an apprenticeship, or skilled trades training. Education can open doors to opportunity, independence, and long-term stability—and the CLB helps remove financial barriers that can stand in the way.
Just as Mardi Gras celebrations bring communities together, the Canada Learning Bond is a collective effort to support the next generation. Many families are eligible but don’t realize it, or they assume the process is complicated. In reality, registering is straightforward, and support is available through financial institutions and community organizations to help families open an RESP and access the bond.
As families gather to celebrate Mardi Gras—sharing food, laughter, and traditions—it’s a great moment to think about the future you’re building for your children. Taking a small step today can lead to big rewards tomorrow. Registering for the Canada Learning Bond is a simple yet powerful way to turn celebration into opportunity.
This Mardi Gras, enjoy the music, the colours, and the joy of the moment—but don’t forget to invest in what comes next. Because when we celebrate community and plan for the future at the same time, everyone has something to celebrate. 🎭💜
