Youth Able to Reach Goals with Help from PEI Based Foundation
News Release
The Reach Foundation Inc. expands facility to accommodate more youth programs
August 22, 2017 – Stratford, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The PEI Reach Foundation will soon be offering more programs, empowering struggling youth to pursue further education or employment, thanks to funding from the federal and provincial governments. These investments support the expansion of this social enterprise that guides young people towards a brighter future, helping to promote community growth and economic development across Prince Edward Island. The Reach Foundation helps between 12 and 70 clients each day, including seven who are employed through the centre’s work experience program.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Pat Murphy, Minister of Rural and Regional Development today announced non-repayable contributions of $155,000 for the PEI Reach Foundation.
This funding will go towards a 2,900 square foot expansion to the facility, increasing its usable space to accommodate additional programs for youth and expand the centre’s recreational and fitness activities. This project will involve a new woodworking space, a soap production area, two washrooms, as well as a mental health and fitness space.
ACOA is providing $130,000 through its Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), which helps Atlantic communities to develop competitive industry sectors; strengthen infrastructure; enhance environmental performance; overcome economic challenges; and build on their strengths to create long-term employment and economic growth. The Province of PEI is providing $25,000 through its Community Development Program.
Quotes
“Reaching out a hand of support to those who need it is how we can ensure prosperity and success both here on the Island, and the rest of Canada. These programs and activities build confidence and self-esteem, while developing valuable life and teamwork skills that are essential for future employment opportunities. The Government of Canada is pleased to support the PEI Reach Foundation as it encourages youth to pursue education and employment, while assisting them with issues of mental illness and recovery from addiction.”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan
“Building a better future for our communities starts with ensuring our youth have the supports they need to thrive. The PEI Reach Foundation provides meaningful support to help Island youth move past their addictions and the Province of Prince Edward Island is pleased to support their continued work.
The Honourable Pat Murphy, Minister of Rural and Regional Development
“The support we have received from ACOA for these enhancements to our facility is something we feel very fortunate to receive. Fitness and nutrition are big contributors to a successful future, and we are excited to incorporate this into our Centre. Our programs help to integrate struggling youth successfully back into society, and this support will open doors up for even more promising opportunities with their education and employment."
Cheryl Roche, Co-founder, The Reach Foundation Inc.
Contacts
Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Wayne Mackinnon
Senior Communications Officer
PEI Department of Rural and Regional Development
902-314-3407
Cheryl Roche
Co-founder
The Reach Foundation Inc.
902-393-6573
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