(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

changes

Youth HQ loses core funding for major programs in Innisfail

Nov 28, 2019 | 2:51 PM

Big Brothers Big Sisters and Boys & Girls Club programs in Innisfail are set to lose core funding as of December 31.

In a release, Youth HQ says this is due to a decrease in provincial funding, identified community need, and a new strategic direction.

“We remain committed to serving the children and families in Innisfail, but we are limited by this reduced capacity to continue to provide and grow our present level of service,” says Dawn Flanagan, Acting Executive Director for Youth HQ.

The impending loss will affect 205 youth presently accessing or in need of services provided in Innisfail. Each program is losing $24,600.

Youth HQ is now seeking to secure funds through other sources, however they anticipate that will be a challenge given the current economic climate.

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“As parents and business owners in Innisfail we are shocked at the decision to cut all funding to these beneficial programs. Our kids have benefited tremendously from the Boys & Girls Club program and are lost for words to understand why this decision was made,” say Kyle and Danielle Blazenko.

“Mental health, drugs and crime have never been more of a problem than now. We need to be making our youth a priority in those hours after school where many do get into trouble because there is nothing for them to do. We are very disappointed, both as parents and business supporters of this valuable program.”

Youth HQ says it is determined to continue serving Innisfail youth, despite these cuts.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters will continue to operate their community-based mentoring program and the adult supported in-school mentoring program; however the teen mentoring programs will be discontinued,” the Red Deer-based organization explains. “The Boys & Girls Club will be discontinuing all community-based programs in Innisfail; families will be able to access programs offered out of neighboring Red Deer County locations in Bowden, Spruce View, Penhold, and Springbrook, and will continue to be able to access programs and services through Camp Alexo.”

The Boys & Girls Club Flex Your Head program operating out of St. Marguerite School will continue until February 2020.