Giving children and youth a chance to achieve their potential is a big part of what we do.
It’s why we invested more than $900,000 in nearly 40 youth programs over the last two years.
“Investing in the future of our children is important for their well-being today, but it also helps them build brighter futures tomorrow,” says Alexya Heelis, Executive Director of the United Way Saint John, Kings and Charlotte.
“The programs we help fund also break cycles of generational poverty, an obstacle facing many kids who want to be all they can be. These programs put them on a path to achieve their ambitions.”
Giving children opportunities early in life shapes their future success but, unfortunately, too many are climbing a steep hill at the beginning of their journeys.
One in four children are not adequately prepared to succeed in a school environment when they enter Grade 1.
Seven in 10 youth aged 15 to 17 experience some form of bullying each year.
And 30 per cent of youth report having issues with mental health or substance use.
The United Way is investing in local programs and services to help kids overcome these early challenges in their lives.
Programs at Bee Me Kidz improve the social and emotional skills of families in neighbourhoods that have been identified as a priority in needing help, while Big Brothers Big Sisters offers mentorship and time spent with positive role models.
Other kids have been empowered through Sistema’s daily after-school orchestral program. Milltown Elementary School is improving their literacy and numeracy through its summer slide program, as well as offering tutoring and family support. Neighbourhood Works provides transitional housing and other support for youth in Charlotte County.
These programs and others supported by United Way have benefited thousands of kids over the last two years.
And it is all thanks to your generous support.