YMCA and partners bring teen drop-in to Gananoque News Release

GANANOQUE, ON – In response to the voices of local youth and following the success of the teen program in operation at the Brockville YMCA, the YMCA of Eastern Ontario is collaborating with the Town of Gananoque, the United Way, the Gananoque Police and RNJ Youth Services to deliver a drop-in program for teens in Gananoque over the summer.

“We are focussed on addressing gaps in services across our region and are excited about partnering with like-minded agencies to help people in our communities,” said Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “We are pleased to be working alongside RNJ Youth Services and Gananoque Police and to have funding from the United Way and Gananoque town council who see the value in supporting local youth.”

Gananoque Police see the new program as a positive response to what they have been hearing from youth. Police Chief Scott Gee said, “Through numerous consultations, youth have told us that they want a safe space to gather and that is what this initiative provides. We are pleased that the Town has recognized the voices of our teens and is playing an important role in making this a reality.”

The mobile teen drop-in would provide teens with access to free wi-fi, a safe space and good food – things that teens have said are very important to them.

“We are happy to be partnering on this initiative,” said Sue Poldervaart, executive director of RNJ Youth Services. “This is a great thing for our youth and brings them much needed services. We’re looking forward to an exciting summer.”

The United Way is providing $10,000 to this initiative and the Town of Gananoque is matching this contribution. Gananoque police and fire services are donating use of the mobile command trailer to use as the drop-in space. The YMCA is covering the remaining budget of $5,000 as a demonstration of its strong commitment to supporting teens with opportunities for healthy activities and positive social connections.

“United Way Leeds & Grenville is thrilled to support the youth in Gananoque. We have worked diligently with a number of stakeholders over the past several months to understand the needs of the youth in the community. Thank you to the YMCA Eastern Ontario for taking the lead on this important first step,” said Trish Buote, executive director, United Way Leeds & Grenville.

The program will launch the week of July 5 at Joel Stone Park (The Berm). Covid protocols will be in place.

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About the YMCA of Eastern Ontario

The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is a charity that provides programs and services to improve health and health outcomes, develops leaders, helps build social connections and provides safe, inclusive spaces for people of all ages. The Y is Canada’s largest provider of childcare with trademarked curricula, and offers fitness and other programs including SCUBA, Karate and Total Life Care. Find out more at: https://eo.ymca.ca/.

For information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Colleen Gareau
Director, Marketing & Communications
YMCA of Eastern Ontario
colleen.gareau@eo.ymca.ca
613-888-9298