The Burnaby school district has gotten a little extra cash from the provincial government to try to keep local kids out of gangs.
The province announced Tuesday it is providing more than $486,000 in grants to fund mentorship programs in 24 school districts around B.C.
Burnaby’s share will be $10,500, according to Nick Christofides, district principal of safe and caring schools.
“This funding allows for flexibility for us to augment programs, both during and outside of school time, for students who are vulnerable and at risk of being recruited,” he said in an emailed statement.
Uses for the new funding will include workshops for youth on things like managing difficult emotions, as well as food and transportation for various clubs, according to Christofides.
“These groups and clubs are working and creating positive connections at school for kids,” he said.
The funding announced this week is administered through the School District Mentorship Grant Program, which supports school districts to develop local programs and initiatives for youth who encounter gang recruitment.
It was developed by the ministries of education and public safety as part of the Erase strategy, an education-based anti-gang program.
“We need to work together to make sure young people are knowledgeable and resilient,” Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth said in the funding announcement. “By supporting our schools and investing in early intervention and prevention programs, we're addressing the root of the issue and diverting vulnerable youth from joining gangs in the first place.”
For students worried about something at school or in their personal lives and interested in letting an adult in their district know who can help resolve the situation, visit www.erasereportit.gov.bc.ca.
To learn more about the Erase school-based gang and gun prevention program, visit www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/erase/school-safety.
To learn more about Erase strategy resources for students, parents and education professionals, visit www.erase.gov.bc.ca.
To view gang prevention resources for parents, visit the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit B.C. website www.cfseu.bc.ca/end-gang-life.
Follow Cornelia Naylor on Twitter @CorNaylor
Email cnaylor@burnabynow.com
