CLINTON, Ontario – The Government of Canada is pleased to support Rural Response for Healthy Children in carrying out its Rural Parent Support/Education Initiative – Financial Management. The project will work to increase the economic security of at-risk, young women/mothers living in rural areas by helping them to develop effective resource and financial management skills.

“This project will serve young mothers, helping them to achieve financial independence,” said Mr. Ben Lobb, Member of Parliament for Huron-Bruce. “Rural Response for Healthy Children will help these young women access the opportunities they need to move forward and improve their economic situation.”

“I am proud of our Government’s support for this much-needed project. It will increase the economic opportunities, prosperity and safety of young, at-risk mothers in rural communities,” said the Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women). “As an organization dedicated to providing family support in a rural community, Rural Response for Healthy Children will help young mothers to find work in their region, ensuring their own financial security, and that of their families and communities.”

“A priority need of young, at-risk mothers living in rural communities is employment opportunities,” said Ms. Diane Hahn, Executive Director or Rural Response for Healthy Children. “Through Rural Parent Support/Education Initiative – Financial Management, we are providing support to young, at-risk mothers in overcoming barriers in their families and in their communities. This will help them to participate in economic development, access community resources, and improve their formal and informal education, employment and management opportunities.”

To carry out the Rural Parent Support/Education Initiative – Financial Management, Rural Response for Healthy Children will receive $137,520 through the Women's Community Fund of the Women's Program of Status of Women Canada. This Fund supports eligible organizations in carrying out projects at the local, regional and national levels.

Rural Response for Healthy Children, a not-for-profit organization, supports a responsive rural community that protects the rights of children, reduces child abuse and neglect and strengthens families to nurture their children.

Status of Women Canada is a federal government agency working to promote equality for women and their full participation in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.