Lighthouses

What is this program about?

Lighthouses is a Manitoba Justice fund that stimulates development of partnerships that support recreational, educational and social programs for young Manitobans. Part of the Neighbourhoods Alive! strategy, Lighthouses makes use of schools, recreation centres and other community facilities outside school hours for sports, arts, music and other activities organized by and for local youth.

Where is the program available?

Lighthouses is available to communities throughout Manitoba.

Why was this program introduced?

The main goal of this program is to reduce youth crime by providing young people with positive community-based social and recreational activities. Statistics Canada's National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth Series recently concluded that children who participate in organized activities outside of school tend to feel better about themselves, get along better with friends and do better in school. Young people can develop enhanced awareness of their personal responsibility for their community, by participating in program partnerships with the police, Manitoba Justice and the community.

What kinds of programs are eligible for funding?

Lighthouses funds a wide variety of recreational and other programs that promote anti-vandalism, safety and crime prevention and community relationship-building, as well as awareness of these issues.

How does a program qualify for funding?

A thorough and detailed program proposal is required. The proposal must identify a host organization that will take responsibility for the funding application and the financial management of the program. Preference is given to proposals that include several agencies and community groups working together to help Manitoba youth.

Proposals are selected for funding based on criteria such as the following:

• The main goal must be to provide alternatives to youth crime.
• Programs should involve youth in all stages of development and operation.
• Youth leadership should be encouraged and supported.
• Activities should provide worthwhile, positive experiences for participants.
• Programs should have the support of the local police and Manitoba Justice staff.
• Programs should enjoy strong support from their communities.
• Plans should include ways of measuring program effectiveness.

Without exception, every adult participant must be aware they are subject to criminal record and child abuse registry reviews.

How much funding is available?

Program sites are supported with up to $1,000 per month. The provincial government can cover as much as 50% of the total cost of running a program. The remaining funding must come from other sources and can include services-in-kind such as the use of a facility or equipment.

What is the deadline for applications?

Applications must be received by December 1, to be considered for funding for the next fiscal year.

How do I apply to the program?

Assistance in developing a proposal is available by contacting
the program manager at:

Manitoba Justice Public Safety - Lighthouses
Phone: (204) 945-1549 or (204) 945-6769

Or visit our Web site at: www.gov.mb.ca/justice/lighthouses