Williams Lake, B.C. –  The crime prevention project, “Changing Direction in Support of Aboriginal Youth” has received  confirmed funding of  $4,106, 423.00  over the next five years.

The federal funds will be used by the Native Courtworker and Counseling Association of B.C. to provide targeted intervention to about 200 Aboriginal youth aged 12 – 18 who are at risk of becoming involved in gang activity in both Williams Lake and Nanaimo.

The funds will allow the Association to provide individualized counseling programs, mentorship and a focus on traditional activities to help young people avoid becoming involved in criminal activity.  It will also reinforce a healthy attachment to community and culture.

The funding has been made available through the Youth Gang Prevention Fund, which has provided nearly $30 million  in funding for  19 projects over the past 7 years.

This fund invests in communities where youth gangs are an existing or emerging threat, and supports initiatives that  clearly target youth in gangs or at greatest risk of joining gangs.