TORONTOThe Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women), today honoured volunteers involved in a project that empowers women of African and Caribbean backgrounds living in high-risk neighbourhoods in the Greater Toronto Area.
The Black Youth Helpline, a not-for-profit organization providing the most marginalized youth and parents with access to culturally appropriate support and services, received $197,306 in October 2008. Its project, Empowering Women: Leadership Development for Parents of Complex Needs Youth, continues over a 36-month period.
Minister of State Guergis acknowledged the hard work and dedication of Black Youth Helpline volunteers by providing certificates of appreciation.
"Through this outstanding project, women's lives are being transformed and they are being empowered to move from the margins, where racism, violence and other factors limit their opportunities, to the mainstream, where they can contribute to the life of their communities," said Minister of State Guergis. "This initiative also builds women's leadership skills, inspiring them to be role models for their families and for youth in their communities."
"The extreme marginalization of young mothers of African and Caribbean origins in the Toronto area is a social misfortune our organization is working to change," said Ms. Olga Semple, Chairperson of the Black Youth Helpline. "Through our Empowering Women project, we are helping to create a better future for these young mothers and their children."
Funding for the Empowering Women program comes from the Women's Community Fund of the Women's Program of Status of Women Canada.
Status of Women Canada is a federal government agency working to promote equality for women and their full participation in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.
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Sherine Mansour
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State (Status of Women)
819-956-4000
Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning
Status of Women Canada
613-995-7839
