THE BATTLEFORDS — The council of the Town of Battleford is considering Concern For Youth's request for $18,000 for 2024, up from the $10,000 given last October.
Linda Coe-Kirkham — the Executive Director for the organization over the four months since Dani Williams resigned earlier in 2023— noted at the council's Nov. 6 meeting, that the organization has undergone a year of transition and growth,with changes in staffing, and increased number of youth using their programs, and a new strategic plan.
“The staff team has grown to four full-time staff to meet the increased demand for services,” Coe-Kirkham said in a letter presented to council.
Coe-Kirkham noted that the increase in funding as requested would allow them to maintain current staffing levels, and support the new theatre and music programs, along with a new focus on sports for youth.
“We've come full circle, really starting to develop some growth and respond to interests and needs,” she said, adding that they currently have 95 youth utilizing their programs, more than double that they had this time last year.
She noted that the number of youth from Battleford has increased by over one-third, with a total of 21 active youth through 2023. She added that limited space in their current location to accommodate this growth has forced the organization to explore moving to Battleford.
“With the addition of the new pump track, the basketball courts, a pending partnership with Battlefords Community Players, and a new music program with instruments sponsored by Battleford Furniture, we are keeping an eye out for future facility options.”
She noted that on top of increased numbers and staffing, the organization is seeing an increase in grandparents referring youth, younger kids influenced by gang activity and more kids not being in school due to them being primary caregivers.
“One family involved with the organization is responsible for nine children younger than herself and she is 13,” Coe-Kirkham said.
Deputy Mayor David George asked about what age groups utilize the organization's programming, and Coe-Kirkham said that the organization's mandate is youth age five to 19, but that they may have to pivot.
Mayor Ames Leslie wanted to clarify the difference between the organization and Boys and Girls Club of the Battlefords. Coe-Kirkham noted that Concern For Youth focuses on different ages, five to 19, and one-on-one mentorship.
“Our needs are growing really quickly,” she said.
“I'm surprised at the numbers,” Councillor Judy Pruden said.
“It's a really big load there, for sure,” she added, comments mirrored by the rest of the council as they take the request into their budget deliberations.
