Backgrounder

Funding for Partners in Process Equine Learning Centre

The Government of Canada today announced over $250,000 over 3 years in funding for “Connecting Youth in the Justice System with Equine Assisted Illicit Drug Addiction Therapy – A Pilot Project”.  The project, to be delivered by the Partners in Process Equine Learning Centre, supports Canada’s National Anti-Drug Strategy which focuses on: preventing illicit drug use in young people, treating people who have drug addictions, and combating the production and distribution of illicit drugs.

About the Youth Justice Fund – Youth Justice Anti-Drug Component:

Under the Youth Justice Fund - Youth Justice Anti-Drug Component, Justice Canada funds treatment opportunities designed to assist youth already in the justice system with their rehabilitation, as well as to create connections with community-based programs and services that will help youth make smart choices and resist drug use.  By supporting the rehabilitation and safe reintegration of young offenders back into their communities, the Government of Canada is working to maintain safe streets and safe neighbourhoods.

Starting in 2008/2009, the fund will provide just under $1.5 million each year to projects that will help youth in the justice system who are addicted to drugs.

About the Partners in Process Equine Learning Centre Project:

“Connecting Youth in the Justice System with Equine Assisted Illicit Drug Addiction Therapy – A Pilot Project” will provide a unique drug treatment program for youth in conflict with the law.  Youth will be able to learn about trust and taking responsibility for their actions through a twelve session Equine Assisted Learning Program.  The sessions are designed to challenge both their mental and emotional state with the objective of identifying the underlying reasons for their illicit drug use.  Upon successful completion of the program, youth can remain involved by mentoring new participants entering the program.

Following the pilot project, an evaluation report will be prepared to explore the relevance, efficiency and impact that the program had both in the community and on the youth who attended.  The report will also provide information on the effectiveness of equine assisted therapy as a possible treatment option for youth in the justice system with illicit drug dependencies.

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August 2008