| January 8, 2010 IMMIGRANT YOUTH IN ABBOTSFORD BENEFIT FROM INVESTMENT ABBOTSFORD – Immigrant and refugee youth in the City of Abbotsford will get a helping hand from a new, $69,076 pilot program. “This program is providing an excellent support network that helps new residents transition to their community,” says Abbotsford West MLA Michael de Jong. “The benefits of this program are far reaching as it helps strengthen our community and assists residents to work together to create a welcoming place for everyone.” “When these young immigrants arrive in our city they will have the benefit of programs to help them get the most out of their education, thanks to the support of the federal government and our Member of Parliament, Ed Fast,” says Abbotsford South MLA John van Dongen. Starting in January, School District 34 will provide in-school support services like individualized counselling and training courses to at-risk immigrant and refugee students in grades 8 to 12 to help them overcome learning and school adjustment issues and develop connections to their school and community. The pilot targets vulnerable groups such as older immigrant students arriving with limited English language or formal education, students who have significant social and communication barriers, and students who are struggling with mental and emotional issues as a result of traumatic experiences before arriving in Canada. The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program addresses the needs of a specific group of immigrant youth in grades 8 to 12 who are at risk of dropping out or not achieving their full potential. “The Government of Canada is committed to helping newcomers succeed,” says Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. “Young people who are new to this country face their own unique challenges. With this funding, young newcomers to British Columbia will have access to improved services in their schools that will ease their transition to life in Canada and strengthen the community as a whole.” Government funding is provided by the Government of Canada through the Agreement for Canada-BC Co-operation on Immigration, and through the Province’s WelcomeBC program, which supports immigrants and their families in succeeding both economically and socially. More information can be found at www.WelcomeBC.ca. -30- | |
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