Ontario Expanding Youth Opportunities Fund

Ontario Expanding Youth Opportunities Fund

– Brampton, ON

Ontario is announcing the 31 grassroots projects that will receive $7.7 million this year from Ontario’s Youth Opportunities Fund to help at-risk youth succeed.

Tracy MacCharles, Minister of Children and Youth Services, visited LAB B in Brampton today to highlight the 31 selected projects. LAB B, Brampton’s first co-working space, home to creative freelancers and entrepreneurs, is receiving $300,000 over 36 months to create a Creative Economy Co-op program that will help youth in Peel Region gain entrepreneurial skills through mentorship.

Other projects receiving funding this year will help at-risk youth gain skills like computer coding, software design, and music; learn about positive body image, healthy relationships and self-confidence; and get active in sports and physical activity. Some recipient organizations have a special focus on Indigenous, racialized, newcomer, Francophone and LGBTTQ youth.

These grants will benefit at-risk youth in communities across Ontario, including Akwesasne, Fort Albany, Hamilton, Kingston, Moose Factory, Naughton, Ohsweken, Ottawa, Peterborough, and Sachigo Lake. Projects will also include a focus on youth who are in the child welfare or youth justice systems and kids with special needs.

Ontario is also announcing that next year’s Youth Opportunities Fund will be expanded to a total of $12.95 million. The Youth Opportunities Fund is part of the province’s $55-million enhanced Ontario Youth Action Plan – Ontario’s largest investment to date to help children and youth in high-priority communities across the province.

Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and have the best possible start in life. Increasing supports for children and youth is one way Ontario is working to support families and create positive environments so all children and youth can reach their full potential.

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