A Partnership Between ACF and AYC Helps Youth to Stay Connected

Through our Smart and Caring Community Grant program and the federal government’s Emergency Community Support Fund, we are helping youth stay connected right here in Abbotsford.
This year, the Abbotsford Youth Commission (AYC) was the recipient of a Smart and Caring Community Grant to help fund their Healthy Me, Health We program. This program engages youth ages 12-18 in actively participating in their health and well being through group and individual activities. The activities are designed to increase connection and belonging while also providing nutritious food and teaching cooking skills. Take it from Emily Cielen, Youth Programs Lead at AYC, who’s ‘Cooking with Emily’ live stream was one of the most popular events hosted by AYC recently. Emily led youth in making delicious and healthy oatmeal energy balls thanks to the Smart and Caring Community Grant.
Not only was the AYC the recipient of a Smart and Caring Community Grant, but they have also received one of many Emergency Community Support Fund grants thanks to the Government of Canada and Community Foundations of Canada. Through this program, we’ve invested $221,000 in local charities supporting populations experiencing heightened vulnerability during COVID-19. The AYC received these funds in support of their Connection Is Key program, which aims to provide meaningful programs online. Because of the pandemic and physical distancing, many youth may feel isolated and experience negative side affects like depression and anxiety. The AYC is working hard to combat this and help youth in our community stay engaged, happy, and healthy.
We’re so happy to support the AYC in helping youth in Abbotsford stay connected through various programs. Click here for more information about their programs.
For information about the Smart and Caring Community Grant, click here.
For information about the Emergency Community Support Fund, click here.