Winnipeg Development Agreement funds solvent abuse prevention program

[CAWED]

DECEMBER 10, 1998

_WINNIPEG DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FUNDS SOLVENT ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM_

_WINNIPEG, Manitoba -- An early intervention program developed by the
Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, in partnership with the Solvent Abuse
Round Table Working Group, will benefit Winnipeg children, youth and
their families thanks to a $150,000 contribution from the Winnipeg
Development Agreement (WDA)._

Funding for the community-based _Solvent Abuse Prevention Program_ was
announced today by _Family Services Minister Bonnie Mitchelson_ on
behalf of _Urban Affairs Minister Jack Reimer_, provincial minister
responsible for the WDA; _Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy_,
federal minister responsible for the WDA; and _Winnipeg City
Councillor Dan Vandal_ on behalf of _Winnipeg Mayor Glen Murray_.

"Prevention programs like this benefit everyone," _Mitchelson_ said.
"Giving our youth realistic options and promoting healthy lifestyle
choices means they are more likely to avoid substance abuse and play a
positive role in their communities. The province is committed to
supporting the Solvent Abuse Prevention Program through the WDA,
because the community as a whole benefits as much as the young people
who participate."

"This project is an excellent example of what community organizations
and government can accomplish for our young people by working
together," said _Minister Axworthy_. "This prevention-based initiative
will give youth and families the support necessary to connect with
their community through enjoyable and healthy activities. Thanks to
the WDA, our young people are increasing their opportunities to
overcome the barriers they now face and lead more productive lives."

The program was developed by _Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre Inc._ as an
early intervention program to promote healthy lifestyles through
leadership, role modeling and providing drug free activities and
opportunities for children and youth. The goal is to support the
capacity of young people and their families to make positive changes
by identifying their natural strengths, skills, abilities and
interests and building on them.

Twenty-five young people, aged eight to 16 years old and currently
living in the _North Main area_, will participate in the program. _Ma
Mawi_ will work with _Rossbrook House_, _Winnipeg Boys and Girls Clubs_
and with the _Métis Friendship Centre_ to deliver the services.

The _Winnipeg Development Agreement_ is a five year, $75 million
commitment by the governments of _Canada_, _Manitoba_ and _Winnipeg_
to the long-term sustainable economic development of Winnipeg. It is a
city-wide strategy which focuses on three key areas: labour force
development, strategic and sectoral investments, and the development
and security of Winnipeg communities.