A new program to support youth in facing their challenges is about to get started thanks to a financial donation by Ponoka’s Family and Community Support Services (FCSS).
Central Alberta Youth Unlimited, a non-profit ministry in Ponoka, was grateful to receive a $2,500 grant from FCSS to begin a youth recovery program called The Landing. Area director for Ponoka, Jerel Peters, says this program is meant to give youths a chance to address significant issues in their lives.
“Whether it’s the kid whose parents split up or the kid who’s dealing dependency on alcohol or drugs or whether it’s a kid with low self-esteem,” said Peters.
Close ties with the Ponoka Youth Centre and Ponoka schools has helped drive interest in the voluntary program and Peters says the program will be for those kids who decide they need assistance.
“What we’re looking for is youth coming to us and saying ‘we need some help,’” said Peters.
“I think there’s a significant need. Youth today are often seeking answers,” he added.
Providing the funds to the program is part of FCSS’s mandate, explained Shannon Boyce-Campbell, executive director. She says an asset mapping exercise, conducted a few years ago, showed youths were looking for ways of dealing with personal struggles.
“FCSS wants to support both the aging population and the up and coming population,” explained Boyce-Campbell.
The Landing is a support and recovery program for youths aged 12 to 24. For more information call 403-348-7205.