The Government of Canada Supports Archerwill Metis Local #58

ARCHERWILL, SASKATCHEWAN–(EMWNews – Aug. 5, 2008) – Aboriginal young people in Archerwill will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, workshops, and tutorials, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.

Garry Breitkreuz, Member of Parliament (Yorkton-Melville), on behalf of the Honourable Josee Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for Archerwill Metis Local #58.

Funding of $79,729 will help support the Melfort Youth Empowerment Centre, which provides a safe environment where young people can participate in recreational activities and engage in community life. The centre, which operates on a drop-in basis, gives Aboriginal young people the opportunity to access information on topics such as substance abuse, racism, stereotyping, teen pregnancy, and violence.

“Our Government is committed to helping urban Aboriginal young people reach their full potential and fully participate in the social, political, economic, and cultural life of the country,” said Minister Verner. “This organization recognizes the importance of investing in Aboriginal young people and providing a place for them to engage in activities while maintaining their cultural identity.”

“The Melfort Youth Empowerment Centre is committed to sharing information, recreation, and social activities with its participants,” said Mr. Breitkreuz. “This project will provide a location for young people to participate in positive activities that would otherwise be unavailable to them.”

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The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centre (UMAYC) component of the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Aboriginal Peoples’ Program. This program supports community and culturally-based projects for urban Aboriginal young people to improve their social, economic, and personal prospects and to strengthen their cultural identity.

This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Media Room.