CHILD AND FAMILY CBOS RECEIVE $160,000 FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS

Four community-based organizations that deliver residential services to children and youth in care in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert have been approved for more than $160,000 in one-time capital funding.

"Our government is committed to ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children in care and staff at residential homes across the province," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "Capital funding for necessary residential repairs, renovations, and safety upgrades, as well as for down payments on approved new facilities, is an important part of that commitment."

The following projects have been approved for capital funding in 2010-11:

• $57,400 to the YWCA of Regina to replace the roof, fence, and furnace of KITS Home, a 10-bed emergency receiving resource for children up to 12 years of age.
• $50,000 to Street Culture Kidz of Regina for a down payment on a dwelling from which a new peer group home for female youth, ages 12 to 18, will be operated. In addition to the capital funding, the Ministry of Social Services has also committed to provide annual funding of more than $175,000 for the operation of this new home, as well as provide financial support to the female youth who will reside there.
• $36,800 to the YWCA of Prince Albert for furnace replacement and other renovations at a 10-space peer home for male and female youth, ages 12 to 16.
• $19,000 to STC Urban First Nations Services Inc. of Saskatoon for the installation of safety yard lighting and more secure fencing at two residential homes for male youth, as well as for the purchase of furniture and supplies.

"The provincial government's funding announcement reflects a genuine commitment to continue expanding its partnership with community-based organizations," Street Culture's CEO Kim Sutherland said. "The new peer group home for female youth that is underway is testimony to the government's intention. We are extremely excited to provide this service, knowing that with the provincial government's support, a long-term community development plan will positively affect the lives of many young people."

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For more information, contact:

Brian Miller
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: brian.miller3@gov.sk.ca