REGINA — The Government of Saskatchewan has allocated more than $277,000 over three years for the Pinehouse Wellness Centre Restorative Program in support of youth in the community and surrounding area.
The Restorative Program in Pinehouse was developed in 2018 through a partnership between the government, the Pinehouse Wellness Centre and the Northern Lights School Division. The program provides individualized supports to over 20 students annually, creating opportunities for local youth to participate in activities outside of school hours, including barbecues, cooking/baking courses, fishing trips and youth conferences.
The program is for children and youth between the ages of four and 18 and focuses on preventing and resolving conflict, repairing relationships and connecting students to services and supports they need to be successful in school and reduce the likelihood of future involvement with the criminal justice system. Students who participate in the program have seen tangible results, such as improved communication skills, increased school attendance and academic participation.
“The Pinehouse Wellness Centre works very hard alongside community agencies to serve Pinehouse Lake residents,” Pinehouse Wellness Centre Director Hannah Natomagan said.
“We aim to improve the well-being of youth, adults and elders and to strengthen families. The youth voice is amplified by the strategic planning that has occurred, which is working to empower the youth by strengthening their skills.”
Pinehouse Wellness Centre integrates traditional teachings into the program in partnership with the annual Lance Memorial Culture Camp, a week-long program attended by approximately 60 youth each year. The camp is available to youth in Pinehouse Lake and surrounding communities in the north.
