**UNITED WAY CENTRAIDE NORTH EAST ONTARIO NEWS RELEASE**

Children and youth are one of our community’s greatest assets. Youth engagement, safe places and spaces, and targeted community supports are all instrumental in lifelong success. As part of United Way’s commitment to helping kids succeed, Jennifer Gorman, Manager of Cochrane and Timiskaming Districts, announced Wednesday that United Way Centraide North East Ontario (UWCNEO) would be providing $10,000 in funding to the Youth Wellness Hub in Timmins.

“UWCNEO believes in a community where children and youth have the opportunities to reach their potential,” says Gorman. “Ensuring that resources and opportunities are available locally to help youth build resiliency, self-esteem and a sense of belonging are essential. The Youth Wellness Hub was co-created for youth by youth. It’s a place where everyone is welcome and will continue to grow and evolve based on feedback from youth.”

“In addition to the social component which is very important, youth have access to nutritious food, counselling services, peer mentorship, and other mental health resources,” says Michael Cullen, Executive Director of United Way Centraide North East Ontario. “Less than 1 in 4 Canadian children in need of mental health support actually receive it. We all have a role in helping kids succeed. By working together, we can leverage opportunities that encourage leadership, mentorship, recreation and social opportunities.”

Gorman adds, “Today’s announcement is made possible because of the generous support of our community. In September, UWCNEO hosted a Charity Hockey Game sponsored by Bell Let’s Talk that featured the Sudbury Wolves and Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. It was an exciting game that was well received by our community. The revenue generated from that game is now being invested back into our community.”

UWCNEO believes in a community where all people can succeed. To find out more about how you can support United Way locally, please contact Jennifer Gorman by emailing j.gorman@uwcneo.com

Filed under: Local News