CUMFI creates more group home spaces
- EFN Staff | December 05, 2014
CUMFI Métis Local just moved one more step ahead in being able to provide a full continuum of service for Aboriginal people in the core areas of Saskatoon. CUMFI was one of three community-based organizations that received $200,000 each in one-time capital funding to create 15 new group home spaces in Saskatoon for vulnerable children, youth and families.
“CUMFI would like to thank the Government of Saskatchewan for providing funding for Emergency Receiving Programs, which help children at risk,” CUMFI President Shirley Isbister said. “We look forward to working with Child and Family Programs to serve our community and better support our children and families in need.”
The money CUMFI received will help house 5 children in an emergency receiving program. It is hoped that by having this space for children, it will drop the number of child apprehensions through Social Services. “This house will be a loving and caring home for these children. It will be just like going to grandmas,” said Isbister. “So far our collective programs have prevented over 400 children from becoming wards of the state. This is just one more part of the service continuum that we strive for at CUMFI.”
Isbister was quick with praise for Minister Harpauer and the department of Social Services. “When she came on as minister, good things started to happen,” said Isbister.
“The Government of Saskatchewan’s Child and Family Agenda sets out the goal of ensuring our families are strong,” Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. “This investment in Saskatoon families demonstrates our commitment to expand direct services and supports for vulnerable children and youth by developing group home spaces that are safe, secure and a part of our community.”
The three organizations receiving funding include $200,000 to the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) for a new, five-space emergency receiving group home for children; $200,000 to Hope’s Home for a new, five space group home for children and youth with medical needs; and $200,000 to Light of the Prairies for a new, five space group home for youth with intellectual disabilities.
“The Government of Saskatchewan’s Plan for Growth states that the purpose of growth is to secure a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan people by providing increased supports to persons with disabilities and a better start in life for children and youth,” Harpauer said. “We’re proud to work with organizations like CUMFI, Hope’s Home and Light of the Prairies to make that goal a reality in communities across our province.”