Summer Opportunities For Toronto Students

 
 

July 22, 2009 9:00 AM

McGuinty Government Helping Keep Kids Active And Youth Employed

Thousands of students in Toronto's priority urban neighbourhoods are spending their time learning, working and engaging in sport clinics, art classes and leadership training in schools this summer.

In its third year, Ontario's Focus On Youth program helps non-profit groups deliver summer activities to keep children and youth safe and active.

Keeping students engaged in educational programs throughout the summer is an important part of the government's strategy to reduce poverty across the province.  This year the program is also available in Ottawa, Hamilton and Windsor.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • Last summer, over 20,000 children participated and 700 youth were hired.
  • Studies show that children who spend 20 to 35 hours a week in activities like sports, music and art are significantly more likely to succeed in school.
  • Provincewide funding for the program is $6 million.

CONTACTS

  • Jeff Rohrer
    Minister's Office
    416-314-0835
    jeff.rohrer@nullontario.ca
  • Patricia MacNeil
    Communications Branch
    416-325-2676
    patricia.macneil@nullontario.ca



Ministry of Education
ontario.ca/education


 

"This program is a proven way to engage students - especially those in communities where families may have limited access to learning and recreational activities during the summer."

 – Kathleen Wynne
Minister of Education

"We are doing more for our children by bringing these opportunities to those who would normally not get to go to summer camp."

 – Lorenzo Berardinetti
MPP for Scarborough Southwest

"We are filling a need to help our children to grow by keeping them productive over the summer months."

 – Bas Balkissoon
MPP for Scarborough-Rouge River

 
 
 
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