Toronto, ON – On Tuesday evening, University-Rosedale MPP Jessica Bell visited StepStones for Youth to learn more about how the $26,200 Resilient Communities Fund grant it received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation has helped it reach more young people across the GTA through the use of technology. The grant, awarded earlier this year, is helping with some technology costs, as well as purchasing online software licenses and subscriptions.
“Congratulations to StepStones for Youth on receiving the Resilient Communities Fund grant! This support will empower your team as they connect with and support vulnerable youth, helping them achieve stability, educational success, and a brighter future,” said Jessica Bell, MPP. “The dedication of your staff is truly inspiring!”
With new and updated devices, StepStones’ Connection Coordinators can meet youth who are in or transitioning out of foster care where they’re most comfortable and keep in contact however they prefer. It has also helped them in their “mobility mapping” with youth, an activity that reveals potential individuals in their lives they can reconnect with and get support from, which increases their sense of belonging and community. Formerly done on paper, young people who grew up with technology are able to go much quicker and more in-depth using screens.
“We meet young people where they live, whether that’s going to visit them at school or a coffee shop or catching them online,” said Jackson Walker, Director of Operations, StepStones. “With better technology we’re able to stay in touch and reach them how and when they need us. It also lets us work on things like school, job, or housing applications together, or just play some games together. Technology, for our work, is indispensable.”
StepStones for Youth serves equity-deserving young people aged 10-25 who are or have been involved, through no fault of their own, in Ontario’s Child Protection Services, and who have significant histories of trauma, abuse, and neglect. StepStones helps create positive and meaningful connections with community and culture, increase school engagement, improve mental and physical health, secure long-term and stable housing, and build strong support networks young people can rely on for life. StepStones believe all young people have the right to opportunities that will allow them to thrive and are committed to improving long-term outcomes for children and youth from the foster care system.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
StepStones Contact for Media Inquiries:
Gabriel Perez, Communications Coordinator
StepStones for Youth
(416) 945-2130
gperez@stepstonesforyouth.com
