Government Of Canada Works With Alberta Communities To Help Prevent Young People From Taking Illicit Drugs

Deepak Obhrai, Member of Parliament for Calgary East, announced the Government of Canada's support for a project that will help prevent Alberta youth from taking illicit drugs. Mr. Obhrai made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health.


"The Government of Canada is proud to be working with provinces and communities across the country to help prevent illicit drug use among youth," said Minister Aglukkaq. "This project will provide the tools needed to educate young people about the negative consequences of taking drugs."


The Youth Drug Impact project is targeting youth, between the ages of 13 and 18, involved with or at risk of crime-related behaviours or at a high risk for developing illicit drug use. It is enhancing youth's ability to reduce illicit drug use as well as develop a drug and crime prevention framework for at-risk youth in Calgary. The Calgary John Howard Society will receive $409,130 in financial support for this important project.


"Raising awareness about substance abuse will help better equip youth to make informed decisions about their futures and their health," said Mr. Obhrai. "I look forward to seeing the benefits of the projectinthe months and years ahead."


Initiatives such as this one are another step in implementing the Government of Canada's National Anti-Drug Strategy, which was announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in October 2007.


"This initiative is already seeing positive results in the youth who are participating in the project. These youth have demonstrated a positive change in their beliefs, attitudes and behaviours in relation to drug and alcohol use and participation in illegal activities," said Leslie McMechan, Assistant Executive Director, of the Calgary John Howard Society.


The federal Drug Strategy Community Initiatives Fund provides financial support for health promotion and prevention projects at the national, provincial and local levels. It addresses a wide range of illicit drug use issues, especially among vulnerable populations such as youth.


Source:

Health Canada