Five years ago Sam Mathom moved from South Sudan , a lost soul with no job and no grasp of the English language. But then, he found 5th on 5th Youth Services.
“ I was looking on how to write a resume and apply for a job, and they helped me with English and now I have a job.”
The youth organization has about 8000 people enrolled in its programs each year, mentoring them and guiding them into the work place.
A few months ago, 5th on 5th was in desperate need of emergency funding. The City refused the request , but the province has now stepped up with $75,000 in the form of a Provincial Community Initiative Program grant. Officials with 5th on 5th say they are thrilled to receive the funds.
“I received the letter in the mail and it was some of the most exciting news that has happened in a long time,” says Executive director Gail McKenzie. “That was thrilling because it means we will be continuing offering services to young people. It’s been stressful because we have had a lot of youth come in wondering where are we going to go, what are we going to do?”
The grant puts the organization half way towards its goal of $150,000 in interim funding until the next Provincial Budget is released.
McKenzie is hopeful the extra money is on the way , and continues to urge the community to write letters to their MLA to voice the importance of having it in place.
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