The federal government is granting the City of Prince George just under $2.5 million to help prevent crime before it happens.
Spread over five years, the money will work with families of at risk youth to treat the root causes of crime such as delinquency and drug and alcohol abuse in kids.
MP Bob Zimmer was at city hall to make the announcement;
“We think it’s important in invest into early parts of kids lives before they get involved in crime. That’s why this initiative is focused on the 6 – 14 age groups, to hopefully change that behavior before it starts”
The Strengthening Families Program will be based out of the Native Friendship Centre and will be centered on a course that will provide family skills that promote positive youth development.
Bob Zimmer says he is happy UNBC will be involved;
“They are monitoring some of the data coming out of the program, basically monitoring success and what’s working … often we see these programs start and initiate and even though changes are necessary, they don’t have the mechanism to change on the fly. This program does, which is a great thing”
The funding is a part of $40.9 million the federal government is spending on similar programs across the nation.
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