On December 6, 2004, the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) and the Youth Solvent Addiction Committee (YSAC) formalized an opportunity to enhance their respective roles and effectiveness with the signing of a two-year Memorandum of Agreement that brings together the unique strengths of each organization.
Context
It is widely recognized that substance abuse and addictions have a negative impact on the social, health and economic well-being of Canadians, and in particular First Nations youth and their families, and that effective partnerships between the treatment community and non-governmental organizations can promote the development of leading-edge research, policies and programs that reduce the harm associated with substances such as solvents, alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.
CCSA and YSAC have pledged to work together in a spirit of cooperation, learning and support to implement practical means of bringing the First Nations treatment provider community and research fields closer together; sharing data, information, networks and resources; and sharing information on issues of mutual interest regarding substance abuse, addictions, and First Nations peoples.
Highlights of Activities
- YSAC and CCSA are collaborating on a proposal to the Aboriginal Research Development Grant program of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.
The Memorandum of Agreement expires on December 6, 2006 and can be renewed with the consent of both parties.