Editor's note: This is a letter to John Weston, Member of Parliament for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country. It was copied to The Chief for publication.
I am writing to voice my opposition to the recent funding cuts to the Katimavik program.
My son is currently a member of a Katimavik group in Wolfville, N.S., and I am amazed at the difference the experience has made in himduring these past three months. He is living with other young people from across the country, building confidence in a second language, and learning new job skills. Cooking and cleaning for 10 people, budgeting, and learning to get along within a diverse group of people are all experiences that will serve him well. He has been working with the local community centre, developing programming for after-school programs, and sharing his experiences as a volunteer in Kenya with the children he works with. On weekends, he and the rest of the group are involved in many local fundraisers and social events. The experience has been a very enriching one for him, and it would be a shame if further Canadian young people do not have the same opportunity. Furthermore, I firmly believe that the program has also benefitted the community of Wolfville.
Stable funding from the Canadian government is important to Katimavikso it cancontinue to offer this program to ALL Canadians. These days, young people have access to a huge variety of programs, but for the most part, these programs are out of financial reach for most families. Government funding is imperative to ensure equal access for all Canadian youth.
Sheri Davis
Squamish
