Two new programs are being developed in northwestern Ontario to support Indigenous youth at risk of violence and victimization.
Minister of Children, Community and Social Services Dr. Merrilee Fullerton says the culturally sensitive initiatives in Kenora, and Thunder Bay will help prevent youth from becoming involved in gun violence, gang activity and human trafficking.
Fullerton says the intervention and prevention initiatives will help youth find meaningful alternatives to violence.
“Services that allow individuals to be supported as well as opportunities for youth to learn new skills, build resiliency and find positive opportunities in their communities, where they can make a difference.”
Dr. Fullerton adds, “With the right supports. With the right leadership in communities. People can reach their full potential. Which is what we all want from ourselves, from our loved ones and from our communities.”
She stresses intervening early with children and youth at risk is critical to keep them safe.
The programs, aimed at those aged 12 to 29, include:
Nishnawbe-Aski Legal Services Corporation (Thunder Bay) $325,503
-Support from an Alternative Dispute Resolution facilitator and aftercare worker for Indigenous youth facing crisis, violence, human trafficking, homelessness, drug addiction, mental health, lack of education, legal issues, lack of life skills and basic needs.
Treaty Three Police Service (Kenora) $191,271
-Capacity building program for T3PS and partner agencies to build on work to protect women and girls from violence and provide them with tools and resources when leaving their home community to seek education.
