January 12, 2001

The provincial government’s Neighbourhoods Alive! initiative is providing more than $354,000 in funding for inner-city Aboriginal training programs in the fields of health care and child and family support, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Jean Friesen announced today.

"Today’s announcement is significant as there is an urgent need for more certified Aboriginal health care aides and family support workers in the province," Friesen said. "As well as addressing this need, we recognize that increasing education opportunities is key to building healthy families and communities."

Friesen said Urban Circle Training Centre, a community-based non-profit organization, will receive approximately $200,000 for a 39-week family support worker certificate program for 22 inner-city Aboriginal women and men. The centre will partner with Red River College’s Community Services Department to provide the program that begins Feb. 12.

"Urban Circle Training Centre is delighted to be part of the provincial government’s new Neighbourhood’s Alive! initiative," said Urban Circle co-directors Eleanor Thompson and Ruth Murdock. "This funding will not only allow us to expand certified training and long-term employment opportunities for Aboriginal women and men, but will also allow us to contribute in more significant ways to the stabilization and revitalization of Winnipeg’s inner city and north end neighbourhoods."

Curriculum for the program will focus on a wide range of skill development including assessment, advocacy, communication, referral and parenting skills. In addition, the curriculum will cover the theory of child development, current theories of family dynamics and the promotion of health and safety for children and their families. Special attention will be paid to understanding the needs of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome individuals and the resources available to families.

Urban Circle also received $154,000 for the delivery of a health care aide course that began this past November. The 10-month program will prepare 22 inner-city graduates as health care aides for personal care homes. The centre is working in conjunction with the Nursing, Continuing Education and Aboriginal Education Department of Red River College and all students will receive formal certificates from the college upon successful completion of the course.

"The province is committed to improving support services to families throughout Manitoba with initiatives such as Neighbourhoods Alive!," said Friesen. "It is wonderful to work with community agencies like Urban Circle Training Centre on projects that will enhance quality of life for Manitobans and their families."

Neighbourhoods Alive! is a long-term community-based, social and economic development strategy that supports and encourages community-driven revitalization efforts in specific neighbourhoods in Winnipeg, Brandon and Thompson. The strategy encourages efforts in key areas including housing and physical improvements, employment and training, education and recreation, and safety and crime prevention.

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