Funding cuts threaten Aboriginal youth program
Posted Jun 20, 2012 07:13:36 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A program for Aboriginal youth in Halifax’s north end is facing an uncertain future.
Coordinators of Kitpu found out last week the $100,000 in in annual federal funding they receive has been cut.
The money helped provide a free and safe environment for young people in the city to socialize and learn about aboriginal culture.
In light of the budget cuts, the program was cancelled last week and organizers say they are now scrambling to ensure the program’s survival.
Youth worker Ardath Whynacht tells News 95.7 funding must be found immediately because closing – even for a short time – is not an option.
“When a youth program loses momentum, it’s really hard to get those kids back,” she said. “So even if other funding is found in the next six months, to re-open again in six months, it’s quite a struggle to get those youth coming back.”
An art auction and youth dance have been organized to raise money and local members will take part in a National Day of Action on July 12 in an effort to gain support for Aboriginal programs across the country.
Whynacht says Kitpu is distinct from other programs for youth because it provides not only sport and recreation, but also cultural programming specifically for Aboriginal youth.
She says that distinction has made the program – and its participants – a vital part of the cultural scene in Halifax.
“Other organizations…have been sort of relying on the Kitpu youth programs, inviting the youth to come and perform at community events across Halifax,” she said. “Often if there is a big event, or gala dinner, or some sort of event to celebrate in Halifax, the Kitpu youth would often come and they would dance, or drum or perform in some way. So they’ve really become quite a cultural resource.”
Supporters held a meeting Tuesday night and created a short video that will be shared throughout social media in the hopes of raising awareness about the program’s financial troubles.
