Federally-funded crime prevention program to improve resiliency skills and decrease violence
February 13, 2015 Chilliwack, British Columbia Public Safety Canada
Today, Mark Strahl, Member of Parliament for Chilliwack – Fraser Canyon, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced $1.85 million in federal funding for the crime prevention project Learning to Lead, which will help nearly 200 at-risk youth in Chilliwack, British Columbia.
This project is designed to help young people by providing them with opportunities to improve self-worth and communication skills through participating in positive and structured community and recreational activities. Learning to Lead is based on the Leadership and Resiliency Program model, which enhances youths' internal strengths and resiliency, thereby preventing involvement in substance abuse and violence.
Quick Facts
- The Pacific Community Resources Society will deliver the project, in partnership with the local RCMP detachment, School District 33, the Chilliwack Lake Camp and members of the local community, to nearly 200 Chilliwack youth, aged 12 to 17, who are involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in, substance abuse and violence.
- Evidence-based models supported by the Crime Prevention Action Fund help youth make smart choices through the provision of community-based educational, cultural, sport and vocational opportunities.
- Since the creation of the Crime Prevention Action Fund in 2008, $178.1 million in funding has been approved for 214 projects in communities across Canada. Learning to Lead will receive $1.85 million in federal funding over five years.
- From April 2013 to March 2014, the Government of Canada invested in 101 community-based crime prevention programs through the National Crime prevention Strategy, directly impacting more than 22,000 at-risk youth.
Quotes
“Youth crime and violence are serious concerns for Canadian families and communities. This is why our Government is taking strong action to keep our streets and communities safe. Through community-based crime prevention projects, such as Learning to Lead, we are providing at-risk youth with life skills to make a difference and support their communities.”
- The Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
“I am pleased to support the Learning to Lead project, which will assist young people in Chilliwack and strengthen our community. Our government is working together with community organizations to provide at-risk youth with the tools and opportunities they need to steer clear of violence and substance abuse.”
- Mark Strahl, Member of Parliament for Chilliwack – Fraser Canyon
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Contacts
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
613-991-2924
Media Relations
Public Safety Canada
613-991-0657
