Aboriginal children and youth: investing in their future
October 17, 2008 3:18 PM
McGuinty Government Helping Aboriginal Families Succeed
Ontario is increasing its investment to more than $133,000 in London to expand the Akwe:go program for kids seven to 12 and to establish a new program, Wasa-Nabin, for youth 12 to 18. This is part of a $6.2 million investment that almost triples Ontario's support for these programs.
New and expanded support programs will help more at-risk Aboriginal kids in Ontario build confidence and self-esteem through cultural activities such as mentoring by elders. These programs will also help participants to make healthy choices and become better learners through tutoring, counselling, recreation and other activities.QUICK FACTS
- Wasa-Nabin means ‘to look forward, to look beyond’ in Ojibway
- Akwe:go means ‘all of us’ and ‘a place for everyone in the circle’ in Mohawk.
- Approximately 160-220 children and youth in London will benefit each year from Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin programs.
- Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin, administered by the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres, will serve at-risk urban Aboriginal kids in 29 communities across Ontario when fully implemented later this year.
LEARN MORE
ontario.ca/children
"By increasing our investment in these programs we are helping at-risk children and youth develop the life skills needed to make positive choices and overcome significant challenges, including poverty."
– Deb Matthews
Minister of Children and Youth Services
"Through Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin, our government is helping to ensure that Ontario’s at-risk First Nation, Metis and Inuit children and youth have the resources they need to help build a brighter future."
– Brad Duguid
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
"Through Akwe:go and Wasa Nabin, we are working with N'Amerind to support Aboriginal children, youth and families in London in a way that is culturally relevant and appropriate."
– Chris Bentley
MPP for London West
"We know in this community, Akwe:go is helping our Aboriginal children to be healthier and do better in school. It's a logical next step to offer a program that will help older youth to make the right decisions and be successful."
– Khalil Ramal
MPP for London–Fanshawe
"This additional funding allows us to expand our programming by providing nutritional supports and improve the lives of urban Aboriginal children and youth within our community."
– Donna Pinnance
President, N'Amerind Friendship Centre
Communities
