Government of Canada Announces Funding for Urban Aboriginal Youth Programs in Saskatoon
SASKATOON, December 9, 2003 -- Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Member of Parliament (Wascana), on behalf of Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps, today announced funding of $1,165,022 to support various projects for Aboriginal youth in Saskatoon."The Government of Canada is committed to improve the lives of urban Aboriginal youth," said Minister Goodale. "This funding will enable Aboriginal youth in Saskatoon to acquire values and skills that will be beneficial throughout their lives. These young people will be better equipped to make a way for themselves in society and to contribute their ideas, skills, and creativity."
The funding supports an initial six projects by Saskatoon organizations. They will deliver youth-oriented services in areas such as skills development, cultural retention, and capacity enhancement (see attached Backgrounder for further details).
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centres (UMAYC) Initiative. The UMAYC Initiative provides Aboriginal youth, aged 15 to 24 and living in urban settings, with projects and activities that are culturally relevant and based in the Aboriginal community. The Initiative supports and assists Aboriginal youth in enhancing their economic, social, and personal prospects.
Funding for these projects was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Naline Rampersad
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
BACKGROUNDER
The six projects supported by this funding announcement as follows:
Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre Inc. Ñ Joe's Garage "Guys Only"
This project targets young Aboriginal men, particularly those at high risk of or already exhibiting destructive behaviour. They will participate in cultural activities and traditional practices, as well as be connected with mentors and elders. Through these interactions, the young men will develop greater self-esteem and self-respect, as well as respect for others and understanding of the impact of their behaviour on society, both good and bad. They will have the opportunity to develop new interests, learn social and life skills, and be supported in addressing their individual issues and needs. ($33,382)
Saskatoon Indian and Metis Friendship Centre, Inc. Ñ Youth Group
This project will bring together young Aboriginal people in Saskatoon through shared experiences that develop skills and increase social and cultural awareness. Youth Group participants will engage in cultural activities such as pow wows, round dances, and regalia-making. They will work towards employment readiness through resume writing training, career counselling, and mentorship experiences. The Youth Group will also provide a range of recreational activities and gatherings. ($130,000)
STC Urban First Nations Services Inc. Ñ White Buffalo Youth Lodge (2 projects)
These two year-long projects support programs and services of the White Buffalo Youth Lodge, where every day, between 80 and 150 young Aboriginal people take part in activities or access services. Lodge programs, in partnership with the City of Saskatoon, Saskatoon District Health, the Saskatoon Tribal Council, and the Central Urban Métis Federation, provide a safe location for children and youth to access a range of programs promoting physical health, mental health and education, spiritual and cultural resources, and emotional health services. ($ 210,650; $631,950; total: $842,600)
Western Region II A Métis Youth Council Inc. Ñ Intern Employment Program
This project will provide support and services to enable eight Métis youth to gain work experience through internships with business and community employers to help them gain full employment. ($92,940)
Central Urban Metis Federation, Inc. (CUMFI) Local # 165 Ñ Family Wellness Program
This project will assist Aboriginal youth in addressing the multiple barriers to self-sufficiency many of them face. CUMFI will provide career development workshops, life skills training, cultural programming, parenting workshops, elder luncheons, community kitchens, job readiness training programs, and resume writing workshops. These services will help improve the social, economic, and personal security conditions of participants. ($66,100)
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