The loss of a parent is a life-changing event for a child, emotionally and often financially. Those closely connected with the child’s family often seek ways to provide immediate emotional and monetary help.
One way that friends, family, co-workers, and community members can provide lasting support is by helping to secure the child’s educational future. Even small steps can grow into meaningful resources by the time the child reaches college age.
Start with a 529 Plan
A 529 college savings account is one of the most effective ways to build an education fund. These accounts allow savings to grow tax-deferred, with tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses — including college tuition, certain K–12 costs, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, books, and other eligible expenses.
Whether the child already has a 529 plan or not, here’s how you can help:
If the child already has a 529 plan:
- Contribute directly. Ask a family member for the 529 account number or gifting link.
- Use online gifting tools. Many plans accept contributions through 529 gifts through Backer, which lets you send one-time or recurring gifts via bank transfer, card, or digital wallet.
- Check the plan’s platform. Some 529s have built-in gifting portals with unique links or codes for friends and family.
If no 529 plan exists yet:
- Open a new account. Anyone — relative, friend, or community group — can open a 529 and name the child as the beneficiary.
- Set up a gifting page. Platforms like Backer allow you to create a personalized gifting webpage with a shareable email or social media link. This makes it easy for others to contribute and ensures the money stays earmarked for education.
Even small contributions can add up significantly over time, especially with the tax advantages of a 529 plan.
Beyond Financial Support
While funding education is important, other forms of support can be equally valuable. Mentoring or offering guidance about school and career choices can help the child thrive academically and personally.
Your emotional support and consistent encouragement can also give them a stronger foundation to pursue their goals confidently.
A Lasting Legacy
Contributing to a 529 plan is more than a financial gift — it’s a message to the child and their family that their community believes in their future. Paired with ongoing personal support, it can help ensure that opportunity, not financial limitation, shapes the next chapter of the child’s life.
