A new funding initiative to assist community-based networks that work on behalf of children, will support the work of the provincial Healthy Child Development Strategy, says Premier Pat Binns.
Through the initiative, a total of $110,000 will be made available this year to develop and strengthen Children's Working Group networks which support the healthy development of children and families in Island communities.
"Community-based organizations have been working on behalf of children and their families and in support of the provincial Healthy Child Development Strategy," says Premier Binns. "Through this new funding initiative we hope to strengthen the collaborative effort of these organizations and increase the impact they may have on the healthy development of our youngest citizens. Our government values children for who they are. We know this funding will assist community groups in building their capacity to provide opportunities for children to reach their full potential."
The Children's Working Group networks focus on the strategy's key areas for action:
- Pregnancy, Birth and Infancy
- Early Childhood Education and Care
- Children with Exceptional Needs
- Childhood Injury
- Children's Mental Health
- Family Literacy
- Screening and Assessment
- Parent Support
- Protecting our Children
- Healthy Lifestyles
- Acadian and Francophone Community
The Children's Working Group, consisting of members representing community organizations involved in the strategy's key areas for action and the five government departments involved in healthy child development, works together in an effort to improve the outcomes of children in PEI. Children's Working Group co-chair Catherine O'Bryan says the Partnerships for Children initiative will support networks in their work on behalf of children aged 0-8 years and their families.
"This is a wonderful new initiative for children and their families. The allocation of funding is through a community development approach that will certainly strengthen the existing Children's Working Group networks."
David Harper, chair of the Premier's Council on Healthy Child Development, applauds the initiative.
"Since the release of the Strategy in the fall of 2000 there have been many collaborative efforts among community groups that work on behalf of children and families," said Mr. Harper. "The council is confident this new fund will help networks improve outcomes for children in our province."
More information on Partnerships for Children and the Children's Working Group is available on the Healthy Child Development Web site at www.gov.pe.ca/hcd. Community groups and individuals wishing to become involved with a Children's Working Group network may contact the Children's Secretariat at 902 368-6185.