In August 2023, we invited local organizations to apply for our new Building Safer Communities in Halton Grant. This Grant is made possible by funding from Public Safety Canada’s Building Safer Communities Fund (external link), which supports community-led prevention and intervention initiatives that address gun and gang violence across the country.
While Halton has a low rate of gun and gang violence, this issue crosses municipal borders and local programs are critical to keeping all communities safe.
I am pleased to share that nine non-profit organizations in our community will receive $1.8 million in 2024 and 2025 to support important programs for young people:
- $50,000 for ArtHouse for Children and Youth (external link) to help young people communicate difficult thoughts and emotions through arts-based programming.
- $36,819 for the Centre for Diverse Learners (external link) to teach neurodiverse youth skills to build healthy and supportive relationships.
- $80,670 for Front Line Outreach (external link) to support youth through mentorship and assistance in finding social services.
- $44,200 for the Halton Muslim Youth Association (external link) to provide recreational and career opportunities.
- $404,030 for the John Howard Society of Peel-Halton-Dufferin (external link) to deliver support services to youth at-risk of crime and gang involvement.
- $600,000 forMilton Community Resource Centre (external link) to teach children struggling with behaviour issues using an evidence-based cognitive behavioural model, in partnership with Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre (external link).
- $201,530 for Roots Community Services Inc. (external link) to provide parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills to remove barriers for Black youth through culturally sensitive and culturally safe spaces.
- $53,100 for Thrive Counselling Services Halton Inc. (external link) to provide counselling and mental health services to children, youth, and young adults who are vulnerable to risks associated with gangs and gun violence.
- $351,696 for the YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford (external link) to provide one-to-one support and workshops for youth who are at high risk of getting involved with crime and gun violence.
This initiative is part of Halton’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, which brings community partners together to work on issues impacting the health, safety and well-being of residents.
To learn more about the Building Safer Communities in Halton Grant, please visit Community Safety and Well-Being in Halton.
By working together to enhance community safety and well-being, we are keeping Halton a great place to live, work, raise a family and retire.