News Release

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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PM announces renewal of Youth Gang Prevention Fund

March 15, 2011
Surrey, British Columbia

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the renewal of the Youth Gang Prevention Fund to support communities and families across Canada. The Prime Minister was joined by Stockwell Day, President of the Treasury Board and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway.

"Supporting families and communities is a key pillar of the Next Phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan," said Prime Minister Harper. "That is why I am pleased to announce that our Government is renewing the Youth Gang Prevention Fund to support families and communities by rescuing kids from crime and gangs before they wind up in the justice system."

The Youth Gang Prevention Fund helps reduce youth gang activity and youth violence by investing in community-based prevention programs in communities across Canada that target at-risk youth.

These programs provide:

• Community-based educational and cultural opportunities for at-risk youth, such as enhanced conflict resolution and problem solving skills, as alternatives to gang involvement;
  
• Positive alternatives to gang involvement through paid, part-time work opportunities and vocational training;
  
• Homework and school support;
  
• Opportunities to socialize and participate in recreational activities; and
  
• Intensive and individualized mentorship to help at-risk youth make positive lifestyle choices, and to care for children with serious emotional, behavioural, and mental health needs and their families.

"Our Government will continue to take action to protect young people against the lure of crime and gangs," Prime Minister Harper said. "We will continue to crack down on serious violent crime. And we will continue to support the rights of law-abiding citizens."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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