Ontario Allocates $4.6 Million to Combat Bullying and Support Student Mental Health

The Ontario government has announced a financial commitment of $4.6 million aimed at addressing bullying and enhancing student mental health in schools across the province. This funding is part of the efforts during Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week.

The allocation includes:

• $1.485 million to Big Brothers and Big Sisters for a mentorship program targeting students from Grades 1 to 12.
• $1 million to Roots of Empathy for classroom programs designed to reduce aggression and improve social-emotional skills in children aged 5-13.
• $800,000 to Kids Help Phone for prevention counselling and crisis response services.
• $436,500 to Egale Canada to support educational initiatives addressing cyberbullying, particularly for 2SLGBTQIA+ students.
• $250,000 to the Child Development Institute for the SNAP program, which focuses on emotion regulation and problem-solving skills.
• $245,000 to Principal Association Projects for resources and professional development on cyberbullying.
• $150,000 to Victim Services Toronto for youth safety initiatives.
• $100,000 to pflag Canada for supporting mental health and relationships of 2SLGBTQIA+ students.

These funds are intended to foster safer and more inclusive school environments, promoting mental health and reducing violence in schools.