Agassiz, British Columbia
Helping Indigenous youth in Canada make positive choices and build their skills will help them live lives free from violence. That is why the Government of Canada is investing in crime prevention projects tailored to the needs of youth, through the National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS).
The Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Marco Mendicino, today announced new federal support to help Indigenous youth in Canada develop necessary skills to avoid violence, gang involvement, bullying and cyberbullying. With $3.1 million in federal funding, the Seabird Island Outdoor After School Indigenous Youth Development Program - "Contented Spirit - Sthalethi seywelh" will help increase awareness and reduce involvement in at-risk activities and violent crime among youth.
The project will help Indigenous youth and their families in Seabird Island and three neighbouring First Nations communities develop skills that are culturally-sensitive and consider the Indigenous reality. Seabird Island Band will provide participants with access to culturally-adapted recreation and educational activities, as well as case-managed social supports and counseling services. With these direct community interventions, the project aims to reduce overall incidents of violence, bullying and encourage positive social interactions.
