The purpose of the John Edgar
Thomson Foundation, is to provide limited financial assistance to daughters of railroad
employees who die (the cause need not be work-related) while in the employ of a railroad
in the United States. It is the goal of the foundation to assist the surviving family and
enable the daughters to mature into responsible individuals. The Foundation encourages
each girl to pursue her education as far as her capabilities and interests permit and to
cultivate good health habits in the belief that such encouragement will aid her in
achieving a richer, more fulfilling life.
The Foundation was established in 1882, endowed by the will of John Edgar Thomson, third
President of the Pennsylvania Railroad. While Mr. Thomson died childless, his affection
for his adopted niece, Charlotte Foster, orphaned at an early age, motivated his concern
for the education and maintenance of daughters of deceased railroad employees. Since its
establishment, the Thomson Foundation has provided assistance to substantial numbers of
young women throughout the United States.
In order to qualify for a grant of financial assistance from the Foundation, the girl must
live in the home of the surviving parent or guardian, maintain a good health program,
receive satisfactory academic grades and is encouraged to participate in religious
services of her faith. Eligibility of the daughter is also dependent upon the parent
remaining unmarried. Consideration is also given to other factors including the financial
status of the family.
The monthly allowance made under the grant, assuming continued eligibility, may cover the
period from infancy to age 18; or, under certain circumstances to age 22, to assist the
girl in pursuing a higher educational goal. This supplement to family income is to be used
in its entirety for the benefit of the girl. Whatever grant is accorded, however, usually
serves to benefit all members of the family. The Foundation also provides certain health
care benefits to the daughter.
In general, the grant may be terminated at any time if the financial need ceases, or the
daughter or surviving parent are either unable or fail to meet the eligibility
requirements.
In general, the grant may be terminated at any time if the financial need ceases, or the
daughter or surviving parent are either unable or fail to meet the eligibility
requirements.
The Foundation is completely independent of and receives no perquisites from any railroad
company; nor does it solicit funds for its purposes. It is administered by a director
under the supervision of a Board of Trustees.
Applications for grants must be approved by the Board, and such approval as well as the
continuation of the financial assistance under such grants, lies within the sole
discretion of the Board of Trustees.
Further information and applications may be obtained by writing to: