March 30, 2020
Manitoba Supports Programs for At-Risk Youth in Altona
– – –Funding will Help Purchase Vehicle for Youth Organization: Cullen
The Manitoba government is investing $25,000 to help purchase a new vehicle to support the programs and outreach efforts of Youth for Christ (YFC) Altona, a local organization that works with at-risk youth and their families, Justice Minister Cliff Cullen announced today.
“Many vulnerable and at-risk young people can thrive if given the opportunity to access community-based programs and supports,” said Cullen. “Our investment will help ensure these young Manitobans will benefit from positive experiences that can help put them on a healthier, more productive path for the rest of their lives. This approach is one way that our government is building safer communities for us all.”
Funding will be provided to replace an aging van that is no longer cost-effective to maintain or repair. The vehicle is expected to be delivered later this spring and will be used to transport young people to hundreds of educational, recreational and employment-related experiences annually.
“This van is essential in enabling us to reach at-risk youth in our community,” said Sheridan Sawatzky, executive director, YFC Altona. “It will provide a safe and reliable means of transportation. More than that, it will ensure that economic and social barriers don’t stand in the way of every young person reaching their full potential. Offering better opportunities to every young person is essential to the overall health of our community. We are incredibly blessed and thankful for all the support this project has received.”
YFC Altona has been active in the community since 1999 and its drop-in centre serves young adults aged 12 to 28. The application for funding was submitted by Altona Police Service on their behalf, recognizing the positive effect their work can have on community safety.
“Our youth are our future,” said Chief Perry Batchelor, Altona Police Service. “It is outstanding that we have an organization in our community where so many people volunteer their time, ensuring that these kids have an opportunity to participate in so many positive events. The new van will get them there and back safely.”
This provincial investment is provided through the federal Proceeds of Crime Fund, which is made up of forfeited funds provided to Manitoba from federally prosecuted Criminal Code offences. The province has also distributed approximately $1.6 million to law enforcement agencies across Manitoba from its Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund this year. These funds have been used to:
• purchase specialized equipment and training for police agencies to improve officer and community safety,
• support victims of crime, and
• invest in community organizations leading public safety and crime prevention initiatives.
For more information about criminal property forfeiture, visit www.gov.mb.ca/justice/commsafe/cpf/index.html.
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