Quinte Children's Foundation
Brief Program Descriptions
1. Counseling and Support - Victims of child abuse and neglect are faced with incredible internal barriers that, if left unattended, will affect them for their entire lives. These children often have difficulties in establishing relationships with others; they suffer from low self-esteem and lack of self-confidence. These factors are known to contribute to emotional and behavioural problems and to hinder school performance. Treatment is paramount in order to allow these children a chance to become successful, productive adults. By providing effective counseling and allowing children and youths to heal, we will be helping to break the cycle of abuse.
2. Public Education and Public Awareness Campaign on Child Abuse - The Hasting Children's Aid Society has seen an estimated 30% increase in the number of cases reported over the past 3 years. Last year alone, more than 2,900 children in our region suffered from some form of child abuse or neglect, and more than 340 children/youths were admitted to the care of the CAS. A public awareness campaign aimed at educating and informing the public is long overdue. This program aims to reach target audiences through advertising and speaking engagements, and expects to create awareness on the need for funding child abuse prevention programs, especially during the month of October, which is "Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month."
3. Reach for Success Bursary Program - Post-secondary education is not always a financially viable option for youths who have been abused or neglected. This is one of the difficulties that they face on the journey to mature and productive adulthood. Within this program, bursaries are awarded to youths who have been involved with the Children's Aid Society and have demonstrated academic ability. This program is the result of our belief that a lack of funds should not stand in the way of the educational aspirations of young people who have already faced far too many obstacles at such an early age. Bursaries will range from up to $1,500 per year for college students and $3,000 per year for university students. Helping young people to become successful adults can break the cycle of abuse.
4. Summer of Hope Camp Program - Every year, children at risk of abuse enjoy the enriching experience of attending summer camp through the Summer of Hope Camp Program. For some, it's their first chance to venture outside their neighbourhoods. For others, it's an exciting opportunity for exploration and growth. Each child/youth's worker, teacher, or counselor will recommend a camp for that particular child/youth. It may be simply for its fun activities, or it may have some therapeutic value. The children who participate in this program come from stressful and disadvantaged home environments that contribute to delayed emotional and social growth. The Summer of Hope experience provides them with an opportunity to develop their social skills, self-esteem, self-confidence, independence, and leadership skills.
5. Playing for Keeps Program - It's really the little things in life that matter. For children, little things like joining Brownies or taking swimming lessons are the highlights of their childhood. What they don't realize, is that activities like these actually help children develop socially be teaching them how to conduct themselves in a group or team environment. It also provides an escape for some children with an unhealthy home situation. The Playing for Keeps Program strives to give high-risk children/youths the opportunities to experience the fun of being a child and not be excluded from the activities their friends are enjoying. Experts agree, when children participate in a recreational activity, they are not only learning a specific ability or talent; they are learning skills that will last them a lifetime… they are Playing for Keeps.
