REGINA COMMUNITY YOUTH GROUPS RECEIVE FUNDING

Two Regina community groups today received grants totalling over $7,000 from the provincial government through the Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) for their youth related summer programming.

"These summer programs will provide the participants with the opportunity to access personal assistance when needed, to engage in fun physical activity, enjoy a good book or to take in all the sights this beautiful province has to offer," Regina Elphinstone MLA Warren McCall said on behalf of Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joanne Crofford. "Launching these programs for young people is a great way to kick-off a great summer in our vibrant communities."

McCall presented the Rainbow Youth Centre with $3,200 for staffing the Teen Help Centre. This centre will be set up on site at the Regina Buffalo Days Celebration to provide safe and accessible assistance for youth. Assistance will be available in the form of immediate crisis intervention, counselling, agency referrals and general information.

Sacred Heart Community School received $3,930 for their Summer Fun Zone program. This summer program will consist of morning reading and discussion circles, with the opportunity to invite guest readers and speakers from the community. The program will also focus on healthy, active living by providing nutritious cooking lessons, arts and crafts, recreational activities such as swimming, biking, and field trips to Wascana Park, the Science Centre, RCMP Depot, public libraries and other popular venues.

"The Summer Fun Zone will encourage young people to lead healthy active lifestyles, and it will be loads of fun too," Sacred Heart Community School Coordinator Denise Zuck said. "The funding will come in very handy to ensuring this project is a success."

The CIF was established by the provincial government in 1997 to return a portion of casino profits to communities. Since its inception, the fund has provided more than 2,300 community groups with a total of almost $13.5 million.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Ben Tingley Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306)787-2047