LONDON, April 26, 2004 -- The Honourable Joe Fontana, Member of Parliament (London North Centre), on behalf of the Honourable Jean Augustine, Minister of State (Multiculturalism and Status of Women), today announced financial support of $102,746 for the Community Services Coordination Network of London Wrap-Around Initiative to engage local ethno-racial communities, family and children services agencies in research that will ultimately improve services to the local community."Our Government is committed to respecting all cultures that make up our society, reinforcing our shared citizenship, and ensuring that all Canadians have access to the services they need," said Mr. Fontana. "With this support, the Wrap-Around Initiative will continue to play an important role in helping us reach out to all communities to ensure their participation in our country's prosperity.""As one of the most diverse countries in the world, we need to encourage the well-being of families of all backgrounds," said Minister of State Augustine. "Working in partnership with organizations like the Community Services Coordination Network of London allows us to develop ways to improve social services for ethno-racial families with at-risk children from 7 to18 years."The funding will help the Wrap-Around Initiative identify barriers to access, and service gaps. As well, the organization will be able to carry out research activities with family and children's service groups, identifying the needs and capacities of services in ethno-racial communities. This research will result in family and children services organizations incorporating cultural diversity into their organization.Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Multiculturalism Program. Canada's Multiculturalism Policy promotes full and equitable participation from people of all origins in Canadian society, as well as interaction between diverse individuals and communities. It also encourages public institutions to be respectful and inclusive of Canada's multicultural character. Funding for this project was provided for in the March 2004 Federal Budget.Information:Fred ShermanPress SecretaryOffice of the Minister of State (Multiculturalism and Status of Women)(819) 997-9900
