Released on April 10, 2012
Construction on two new homes that will help keep at-risk mothers and their newborn babies together was officially launched in Saskatoon today.
The two homes, called Baby Steps and Mah's Place, will be operated by the Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre (EGADZ) with funding from the Government of Saskatchewan, Government of Canada and City of Saskatoon.
"We are very pleased to partner with EGADZ by providing $500,000 in funding for the construction and development of Baby Steps," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "This program will provide a safe and supportive environment for mothers to bond with their children and learn parenting skills."
"These homes will help strengthen families by keeping them together," EGADZ Director of Housing and Outreach Services Don Meikle said. "They will also help ensure that both babies and their mothers get a good start in life so they can build a bright future together."
The Baby Steps program provides a supportive environment that allows mothers to bond with their children and learn parenting skills in order for children to be returned to their mother's care. This new home is being built on the principle that individual and family supports create positive outcomes for children and families.
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For more information, contact:
Andrew Dinsmore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8689
Email: andrew.dinsmore@gov.sk.ca
Don Meikle
EGADZ
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-931-6644
Email: don@egadz.ca