Harper Government fights crime in Scarborough - Federally-funded crime prevention program helps at-risk youth and ensures safer communities

SCARBOROUGH, ON, April 14, 2015 /CNW/ - Ms. Roxanne James, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today announced $1.8 million in federal funding for the crime prevention project Our House Your House that will help up to 260 youth, aged 12 to 17, who are involved in, or at high risk of involvement with criminal activity in the Scarborough area. 

The project is designed to reduce problem behaviours, including delinquency, alcohol and drug abuse, and help youth improve their social abilities and school performance. It aims to detect and interrupt violence by strengthening vital skills in youth and their families, such as communication problem solving and resiliency skills. This project will help youth avoid crime and increase community connections, as well as learn skills to help them develop and better contribute to their community.

Quick Facts

• The East Metro Youth Services will deliver the project in collaboration with the Toronto Community Housing Corporation.
• Five communities have been identified for the implementation of Our House Your House: Flemingdon Park, Warden Woods, Empringham Mews, Kingston and Galloway and Gilder.
• From April 2014 to March 2015, the Harper Government invested in 98 community-based crime prevention programs through the National Crime Prevention Strategy.

Quotes

"The safety of our communities requires the participation of all members of our society, including youth vulnerable to crime.  Our Government is working closely with our partners here in Scarborough, and across the country, to enhance public safety and give youth the tools they need to grow and contribute positively to their communities.  Together, we can build a stronger, safer country for generations to come."
- The Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

"Youth crime and violence are serious concerns for many Canadian families, which is why investments by our Government in community-based projects help build stronger and safer communities. Through crime prevention projects, like Our House Your House, we are providing at-risk youth with life skills that make a difference."
- Roxanne James, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and Member of Parliament for Scarborough Centre

Associated Links

• Public Safety's National Crime Prevention Centre

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

Related Links

www.publicsafety.gc.ca