Grant allows native culture to grow at after-school program

Grant allows native culture to grow at after-school program. Liz Nootchtai plays the drum as students perform the Strong Woman's Song before RBC donated $25,000 to GTA's Native Child Family Services after-school program Thursday at Eastview Junior Public School in Scarborough. Staff photo/DAN PEARCE

The after-school program at Eastview Public School is a place for arts and crafts, games and Aboriginal culture.

Those assembled Thursday, Feb. 4 were treated to a special First Nations song performed by a group of young girls; they also celebrated a donation from RBC that will help the program offered by Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST) to continue to be a great place for neighbourhood youth.

The $25,000 grant is part of nearly $20 million RBC has given out in the past 10 years as part of its after-school grant program. Charlene Avalos, director of support services with NCFST, said the after-school program wouldn't be possible without such funding.

"We rely on funding to keep the programs going," she said. "(The grant) means we have an opportunity to teach our children about culture and to keep them safe after school."

The program offers a range of programming for youth aged six to 18 to help them develop social skills, build self-esteem and learn about their culture. (The area is home to a high native population, though all children from the area are welcome).

"These kinds of programs are so needed in our community," Avalos said. "They're going to impact generations to come."

An average of 20 young people come to the after-school program each day to get homework help, play games and sports, and take part in cultural activities. The program has been up and running at the school near Kingston and Galloway roads for a few years now.

The event on Thursday featured special guests Phil Fontaine, former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, and Elder Lillian McGregor. Both were pleased to see NCFST receive the funding that will help it continue its programming.

"That certainly is going to help carry out the work that has been started here at your after-school program," McGregor said to the young people of the grant.

Fontaine enjoyed the performance put on by the girls and spoke of how times have changed when it comes to Aboriginal culture.

"We've seen a strong revival of indigenous cultures...What we witnessed here today, the prayer from Elder McGregor, the smudging ceremony and the beautiful singing," he said.

"That wasn't a part of my childhood. It was something hidden away. This is so very healthy. It is good not only for the First Nations Community, but also the country. The future of our community...is really in good hands for what we witnessed here."

Fontaine spoke about how the world is going to see a showcase of Aboriginal culture as Canada gets set to host the world at the Vancouver Olympics beginning Feb. 12. Both Fontaine and McGregor were torch bearers in the Olympic Torch Relay, sponsored by RBC. In addition to a giant cheque, RBC also brought an Olympic torch to show the children.