Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta is the recipient of a $25,000 cheque from the Canada Post Community Foundation grant.

The grant was created by the Canada Post Community Foundation to assist in enhancing the lives of Canadian children and youth.

$1.2 million in grants have been distributed to 84 organizations across Canada that focus on youth initiatives.

Girls Inc. is one of ten Alberta organizations receiving the grant and they have received the maximum grant amount for community-based support projects.

This funding will be used towards Girls Inc.’s mental health programs for girls in vulnerable communities.

“Tackling gender-specific mental health is an ever-increasing and intricate need in the Wood Buffalo region,” says Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta, Nanase Tonda.

“With this support, we can continue to equip girls with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of well-being while transforming unique challenges into social change.”

Girls Inc. will be putting the funds towards their ‘Mind + Body’ program and the ‘Power of Stories’ program.

The ‘Mind + Body’ program teaches girls that physical and mental wellness are interconnected, and is offered through workshops, multi-session programs, and a rural outreach kit.

‘Power of Stories’ is culturally immersive and focuses on Indigenous storytelling and skills guided by seven core Indigenous values.

The cheque presentation took place at 10 a.m. on Sept. 20 at the Fort McMurray Main Post Office.