$1.8 million handed to organizations in Milton, Oakville, Burlington to prevent youth crime

Non-profit organizations that help prevent crime in Oakville, Milton, Burlington and Halton Hills have received more than $1.8 million from the regional government.

Through the Building Safer Communities in Halton Grant, Halton Region is providing the money in 2024 and 2025 to non-profit organizations that engage children, youth and young adults in evidence-based crime prevention and intervention activities.

This funding is available through Public Safety Canada’s Building Safer Communities Fund, an initiative to support community-based strategies that address gun and gang violence across Canada.

“While Halton has a low rate of gun and gang violence, these issues cross borders and grassroots organizations that connect directly with young people are critical,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “I’d like to thank all the local organizations working on the ground to make a difference in our communities. We will continue working in close partnership with all levels of government to support our youth and young adults, and keep Halton one of safest places to live in the country.”

Local organizations submitted funding applications starting last summer. Nine organizations were chosen to receive grants.

The recipients, which provide programs in recreation, mentorship, art, counselling, mental health supports and many other areas, are:

• ArtHouse for Children and Youth – $50,000 for arts-based programming to help young people communicate difficult thoughts and emotions
• Centre for Diverse Learners – $36,819 to teach neurodiverse youth skills to build healthy and supportive relationships
• Front Line Outreach – $80,670 to support youth through mentorship and assistance in finding social services
• Halton Muslim Youth Association – $44,200 to provide recreational and career opportunities
• John Howard Society of Peel-Halton-Dufferin – $404,030 to deliver support services to youth at-risk of crime and gang involvement
• Milton Community Resource Centre – $600,000 to teach children struggling with behaviour issues using an evidence-based cognitive behavioural model, in partnership with Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre
• Roots Community Services Inc. – $201,530 to provide parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills to remove barriers for Black youth through culturally sensitive and culturally safe spaces
• Thrive Counselling Services Halton Inc. – $53,100 to provide counselling and mental health services to children, youth, and young adults who are vulnerable to risks associated with gangs and gun violence
• YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford – $351,696 to provide one-to-one support and workshops for youth who are at high risk of getting involved with crime and gun violence

To learn more about the Building Safer Communities in Halton Grant and its recipients, visit Community Safety and Well-Being in Halton.