Cold Lake, Alberta, October 10, 2012—Families and youth from different cultural backgrounds moving into new communities will benefit from a new initiative, sparked by a partnership between the Government of Canada and the City of Cold Lake.
Brian Storseth, Member of Parliament for Westlock—St.Paul, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
“The Government of Canada is committed to improving the well-being of vulnerable children, youth and families,” said Mr. Storseth. “This initiative will enable different groups to work together and remove barriers that prevent newcomers from actively participating in their communities.”
The Lakeland Region Inclusion Project is a collaborative partnership involving the City of Cold Lake, the Town of Bonnyville and the County of Lac La Biche, designed to address existing and emerging social issues.
The City of Cold Lake, as the lead organization, is receiving almost $140,000 in federal government funding. With this funding, these municipalities will organize roundtables to identify barriers and develop strategies to integrate people from diverse ethnic backgrounds into their communities. Cultural awareness training sessions will be delivered to key community leaders including educators, local business people, employers and service providers. In addition, youth leadership training and family workshops on available community services will be offered.
“On behalf of the Lakeland Region Inclusion Project, we would like to thank the Government of Canada for its support,” said Craig Copeland, Mayor of Cold Lake. “We are excited to be working with these communities to build bridges and promote intercultural understanding among residents of all ages.”
As part of the project, the organization has sought and confirmed non-federal contributions to match the government’s contribution.
This project is being funded as part of the Government of Canada’s Social Partnerships Strategy. Economic Action Plan 2012 builds on previous commitments to encourage the development of partnerships that cross traditional boundaries between the public, for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. By working closely with communities and relying on local expertise to uncover local solutions to social issues, the government is exploring new approaches to increase the impact of federal spending.
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This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Marian Ngo
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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