YMCA Canada is proud to announce $9.4 million in funding through the Government of Canada’s Supports for Student Learning Program (SSLP) to launch the YMCA’s new Youth Education Supports Program (YESP). This national initiative is designed to help youth overcome barriers to education and unlock their full potential.
YESP will offer academic tutoring, mentorship, individualized case management, and access to vital resources that help youth thrive. Aiming to reach more than 7,700 participants, the program will foster safe, supportive spaces where young people can stay engaged in school, strengthen their mental well-being, and navigate more confidently toward post-secondary education and meaningful employment.
The program will be delivered in partnership with YMCA BC, YMCA of Southern Interior BC, YMCA of Newfoundland and Labrador, YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, YMCA of Southwest Nova Scotia, YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, YMCA of Niagara, YMCA of the National Capital Region, YMCA of Northern Alberta, and YMCA of Greater Toronto.
“When we invest in young people, we invest in Canada’s future,” said the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario. “By partnering with dedicated community organizations like the YMCA, we are empowering the next generation with the skills, experiences, and opportunities that will shape their futures.”
“Education opens doors to opportunity, and every young person deserves the chance to succeed,” said Peter Dinsdale, President and CEO of YMCA Canada. “With this funding, YMCAs across the country will support youth in building the confidence, skills, and connections they need to overcome barriers, continue their education, and realize their full potential.”
Key features of the program include:
- Academic tutoring and study skills workshops for youth in Grades 11, 12, and first-year post-secondary education
- Mentorship and career planning to build educational aspirations and resilience
- Life skills and mindfulness workshops to strengthen well-being and belonging
- Access to resource rooms providing essential items like food, school supplies, and technology
- Financial and material supports, including scholarships, textbooks, education assessments, and support with post-secondary applications
“[YESP] helped me discover new time management skills, make new friends as a newcomer, and practice spoken English. Overall, this is helping me with my education. I appreciated the assessments during the registration process and the opportunity to speak about my needs with my youth worker.”
— AR, 17, Grade 12 student and YESP participant (quote has been lightly edited for clarity)
The YMCA Youth Education Supports Program is a vital step toward breaking down barriers and advancing equity in learning outcomes. By collaborating with schools, youth-serving organizations, communities, and families, the YMCA is empowering young people to stay engaged in their learning and build a strong foundation for future success.
About YMCA Canada
The YMCA is a charity that ignites the potential in over 2 million people annually, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. Across Canada, the YMCA delivers a wide variety of programs and services that empower people of all ages and life stages to overcome barriers and rise to their full potential. Programs include child care, health and wellness, aquatics, employment services, immigrant settlement, camps, mental wellness, and many other community initiatives that respond to local needs. Foundational to all this is the YMCA’s commitment to creating spaces and experiences where everyone feels safe, welcome, and a sense of belonging.
The YMCA in Canada is comprised of 37 YMCA Member Associations, supported by YMCA Canada, the national office, working together so all Canadians can shine on.
For more information, please visit ymca.ca.
