Ottawa (September 3, 2008) - Parliamentary Secretary Rod Bruinooge on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, today announced $50,000 in funding for Aboriginal House, a facility providing support and services to Aboriginal students enrolled in undergraduate studies at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg.
"The Government of Canada is delighted to be a part of an initiative like this that provides such tangible support to Aboriginal students who are working on university degrees," said Mr. Bruinooge. "It will contribute to greater numbers of students completing undergraduate degrees, moving on to successfully complete graduate and professional programs, and achieving employment success."
Aboriginal House will raise the profile of Aboriginal students on campus, and will enhance the overall learning experience for Aboriginal students both socially and academically. Serving in part as a 'home away from home', Aboriginal House will provide a sense of community and give them the support they require to complete their studies.
"The beautiful and welcoming environment of Aboriginal House will benefit greatly from the support of the federal government announced today," said University of Manitoba President and Vice-Chancellor David Barnard. "Their commitment to assisting us in providing furnishings for students, staff and faculty will help make our 'House' a home."
The Government of Canada contribution will go towards outfitting, furnishing and buying computers for Aboriginal House. This contribution is part of the Government's Urban Aboriginal Strategy, which provides support to Aboriginal people living in Canada's large urban centres.
For further information please contact:
Minister's Office
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
