Summer programming for young people could be returning to Fort Frances.
The town’s Community Services committee is recommending council reverse a previous budget decision not to run the youth programs due to COVID uncertainty.
It was resident Janice Neurinski who made the initial ask.
“The kids just really need to get back to being with their peers, being with other people in the community who they wind up trusting. I know in previous years they’ve really grown attached to some of the counsellors at the camp,” says Neurinski.
If approved, the program may only run for a few weeks.
Administration express concerned with the ability to staff the programs.
Mayor June Caul says if, for anything, it’s needed to help with children’s mental health and physical well-being.
“If we can do this for some students who are interested in joining part of these activities, then I think we need to look at that and try to make it happen as quickly as possible,” says Caul.
Councillor Rick Weidenhoeft agrees. He admits the planning is coming late but feels it’s worth running.
“I would like to see the program go forward, even if we can get four or five weeks. I still think it would be a great thing to provide this program for the summer,” says Weidenhoeft.
Councillor Mike Behan says he would prefer waiting until 2022 when they can have more time to properly plan for the program.
Council approval next week would allow the town to begin hiring staff and have programs in place by the middle of July.
