ELIZABETH MÉTIS - The Youth Suicide Prevention Program in Elizabeth Métis Settlement received a $200,000 two-year grant from the province.
In a statement sent to Lakeland This Week, Sharna Collins the administrator for Elizabeth Métis Settlement said the program was launched in August 2024 and “has a registered Social Worker available who will help to provide needed support to youth and their families to improve mental well-being to live a healthy and connected life.”
“The Program aims to meet the individuals and families where they are at in a safe, non-judgmental manner,” said Collins.
“On a community level, the program seeks to enhance youth and community awareness and resilience through various workshops and activities that foster connections among youth and community residents.”
According to Statistics Canada, the adult suicide rate among Métis is approximately twice as high as the rate among non-Indigenous people, while the rate among indigenous youth aged 15 to 24 is five to six times the rate of the general population. A Métis youth specific statistic was not available.
The Youth Suicide Prevention Program in Elizabeth Métis Settlement is part of a larger initiative by the province, which has invested $4 million over 2024-2026 to fund a total of 17 programs.
According to Minister of Children and Family Services Searle Turton, the grant program has so far supported 2,100 youth experiencing mental health challenges.
“These programs are intended to help young people build friendships, improve their sense of belonging and support positive self-esteem. The aim is for targeted programming to help youth at increased risk to feel more confident about their identity and supported in their communities,” said Turton.
Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Dan Williams said it’s important for people to know there is help available when they are struggling.
“Suicide prevention is a priority for our government, which is why I am grateful for our cross-ministry approach for better mental health and well-being for Alberta children and youth,” said Williams.
Other organizations in Northern Alberta receiving funding through the grant program include Gift Lake Métis Settlement, HIV West Yellowhead Society, White Feather Outdoor Cultural Experiences, and Chard Métis Community Association.
