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Supporting Aboriginal Youth At Risk In Blind River

McGuinty Government Invests In Community Services

September 30, 2010

News

First Nation, Métis and Inuit at-risk youth of Blind River and Mississauga First Nation have access to improved programs that are designed to build self-esteem and cultural awareness.

With assistance from the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program, Mississauga First Nation has launched its "New Trails to Success," a locally developed project that uses Anishnaabe (Ojibway) traditional teachings to engage youth.

Additionally through this program, Aboriginal at-risk students attending W.C. Eakert Secondary School in Blind River are engaging in a culturally relevant curriculum which includes learning about local Aboriginal history, traditional medicines and wilderness survival. These students have also benefited from the experience of creating a dedicated cultural arbour space for ceremonial activities and teaching.

These initiatives encompass Aboriginal culture and create a learning environment that supports at-risk teens and encourages their long-term success in school and in their community.

Quotes

"It's important that we honour and acknowledge Aboriginal youth- they are a vital part of every Aboriginal community. By providing them with the means to stay safe and grow strong we are ensuring a bright and prosperous future for all."
- Chris Bentley, Attorney General

"I would like to thank the Blind River and Mississauga First Nation for working together with our government to help protect and heal our community's youth."
- Mike Brown, MPP for Algoma - Manitoulin

"Thanks to this grant we have improved our ability to reach out and engage our youth in programs that strengthen their cultural awareness. We are raising Aboriginal students' self-esteem and awareness while providing them with skills and knowledge that can be invested back into our community."
- Douglas Daybutch, Chief, Mississauga First Nation

Quick Facts

• Mississauga First Nation received a $14,600 and a $5,000 grant from the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program.
• Two million dollars has been awarded to 20 projects that support victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, hate crimes and historic abuse in remote areas of the province.
• Ontario has developed an Aboriginal Justice Strategy with a vision to provide coordinated, equitable, effective and responsive justice services to all Aboriginal men, women, children and youth in Ontario.

Learn More

Learn about Ontario's Approach to Aboriginal Affairs.

Find out more about the Aboriginal Victims Support Grant Program - PDF. (Information available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Oji-Cree).

Contacts

Nauman Khan
Minister's Office
416-326-1785

Brendan Crawley
Communications Branch
416-326-2210

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