PETERBOROUGH, Ontario, February 7, 2003 — The Government of Canada contributed a total of $1,408,776 for the Youth Emergency Shelter in Peterborough, which today celebrates the official opening of its 30-bed emergency and transitional shelter in Peterborough. This project serves homeless youth aged 16 to 24, enabling them to escape abuse and domestic violence.
"Not only will the Youth Emergency Shelter of Peterborough serve the vulnerable in the community, it will provide challenging jobs for young people", said the Honourable Jane Stewart, Minister of Human Resources Development. "This is good for everyone. The Government of Canada is proud to support this endeavour."
"Through meaningful service like this shelter, young people acquire valuable job and life skills while strengthening their sense of accomplishment and attachment to their community", said Peter Adams, Member of Parliament for Peterborough on behalf of the Honourable David Collenette, Minister of Transport and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
"The opening of our new shelter in Peterborough is a very proud occasion for Youth Emergency Shelter", said David Haw, Board Chair of Youth Emergency Shelter. "Our mission is to provide services for homeless and abused youth and help them gain access to a welcoming environment. This facility will allow for expanded programs and represents community partnerships at their best."
The Youth Emergency Shelter was established in 2000 and operates as a non-profit organization. It is devoted to providing shelter and crisis services for physically, financially and emotionally disadvantaged teenagers, who are experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity.
The Government of Canada's National Homelessness Initiative is also making a difference in addressing homelessness issues by encouraging the development of local solutions, such as the Youth Emergency Shelter, to help alleviate homelessness.
Objectives: SEP provides financial assistance to create or improve shelters or transitional housing for victims of family violence, including women and their children, as well as youth.
Objectives: to provide life skills and work experience opportunities to at-risk youth, in partnership with other local agencies; to establish and operate an emergency and transitional shelter for homeless youth; and to support in securing and maintaining permanent accommodation.
David Haw,
Youth Emergency Shelter
(705) 748-3851
Human Resources Development Canada
Media Relations Office
(819) 994-5559