Harper Government helps Edmonton at-risk youth and their families - Federally-funded crime prevention program combats risk factors of criminal and violent behaviours

EDMONTON, May 22, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Today, the Honourable Tim Uppal – Minister of State for Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Edmonton—Sherwood Park and the Honourable Laurie Hawn, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced more than $2.7 million in funding over five years for the crime prevention project Strengthening Families Program for At-Risk Youth, which is designed to strengthen family relationships and help children and youth steer clear of delinquent and criminal behaviours.

Strengthening Families Program for At-Risk Youth addresses issues relating to violence, delinquency and alcohol and drug abuse with up to 175 youth and their parents working together to develop and practice mutually supportive skills and behaviours in areas including communication, problem solving, and coping skills.

Quick Facts

• The Edmonton area Uncles & Aunts at Large Society will deliver the project, with support from Canadian Progress Clubs of Edmonton and area, Native Healing Centre, Camp Warwa, Tim Horton's Camp, Edmonton Police Service and Balwin Junior High School, for up to 175 at-risk youth, aged 12-18, and their parents.

• Evidence-based models supported by the Crime Prevention Action Fund help youth make smart choices through the provision of community-based educational, cultural, sport and vocational opportunities.

• From April 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015, the Government of Canada invested in 100 community-based crime prevention programs through the National Crime Prevention Strategy.

Quotes

"Youth crime and violence are serious concerns for many Canadian families, which is why investments in community-based projects help build stronger and safer communities. Projects like Strengthening Families Program for At-Risk Youth help youth and their families learn the skills and behaviours they need to stop or prevent violent behaviour."
— The Honourable Steven Blaney, Canada's Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

"Our Government is taking strong action to keep our streets and communities safe. We are proud to partner with community organizations, like the Uncles & Aunts at Large Society, to provide family-focused solutions that prevent youth violence and help strengthen the Edmonton community."
— The Honourable Tim Uppal – Minister of State for Multiculturalism and Member of Parliament for Edmonton—Sherwood Park

"Through crime prevention projects, we are providing at-risk youth and their families with needed life skills to contribute to their communities. The Strengthening Families Program for At-Risk Youth is improving family relationships and helping children and youth overcome obstacles and avoid delinquent and criminal behaviours."

— The Honourable Laurie Hawn, Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre

Associated Links

• Public Safety's National Crime Prevention Centre

Follow Public Safety Canada (@Safety_Canada) on Twitter.

For more information, please visit the website www.publicsafety.gc.ca.

SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada

Related Links

www.publicsafety.gc.ca