Canada's New Government Supports CRU Youth Wellness Centre
SASKATOON, October 5, 2006 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, the Honourable Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of Western Economic Diversification, today announced funding for the CRU Youth Wellness Centre. This support will enable the Centre to provide urban Aboriginal young people in Saskatoon with learning experiences through activities and workshops."The various activities offered by the Centre will empower Saskatoon's Aboriginal young people to overcome some of the barriers they face on a daily basis," said Minister Oda. "This will have a positive impact on their sense of belonging, their cultural identity, and their quality of life."
"The Centre provides youth-at-risk in Saskatoon with learning and mentoring opportunities to enhance their well-being," said Minister Skelton. "I am pleased that our Government is supporting this worthwhile organization that helps Aboriginal young people in our city to connect with their heritage and contribute to the community."
Funding will enable CRU Youth Wellness Centre to develop activities and workshops on a range of life skills topics for urban Aboriginal young people between the ages of 13 and 19 living in Saskatoon. Topics to be covered include drug use, sexual health, AIDS/STDs, violence, self-esteem, pregnancy, parenting, fitness, stress management, and employment. The Centre's Youth Advisory Committee will play an active role in identifying the activities and workshops offered. There are expected to be over 200 participants every month.
Financial assistance of $92,400 for this project is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centres (UMAYC) program. The UMAYC provides Aboriginal people aged 15 to 24, living in urban settings, with projects and activities that are culturally relevant and based in the Aboriginal community. It also helps Aboriginal young people improve their economic, social, and personal prospects.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage and
Status of Women
819 997-7788
Todd Mackay
Office of the Minister of National Revenue and Western Economic Diversification
306 780-3244
Brigitte Gibson
Director of Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204 983-7875
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