Bulletin: Help for Vulnerable Children, At-Risk Youth

Community groups will receive targeted funds to provide programs that give vulnerable and at-risk youth a sense of belonging with their peers and caring adults.

The program A Place to Belong should help children and youth learn and develop through non-traditional approaches, such as art, drama, music, recreation, and adventure. Program staff and volunteers will also serve as positive role models and mentors, empowering children and youth to make positive choices as they succeed within new experiences.

The program is built on the evidence that children who feel competent, cared for, and empowered are less likely to begin or continue with defiance, self-destructive behavior and crime.

Government is investing $160,000 in this pilot program at four sites: Annapolis, Hants and Digby counties and the Eastern Shore.

More information on the program is available on page 52 of the Child and Youth Strategy: Our Kids Are Worth It. The complete document is available online at www.gov.ns.ca .