National Association of Friendship Centres launched a new web-based resource

The National Association of Friendship Centres launched a new web-based resource that assists Aboriginal people relocating to urban centres. NewJourneys.ca was two years in the making and targets both Aboriginal individuals and service providers. It includes practical tips and information on issues such as safety planning, registering children for school, and finding employment, housing and other services. It boasts more than 6,000 resources, programs and services, including government resources and listings for recreation, cultural, health, education, employment, and childcare programs and services that are offered in 119 urban centres across Canada. “We know that Aboriginal people move to urban centres for a variety of reasons,” said Jeff Cyr, NAFC’s executive director, in a press statement “They come in search of jobs and education opportunities, and in the case of many women and children, to escape violent and abusive situations. Research shows that the success of these individuals and families relies upon their ability to plan for their new lives while still living in their home communities. It also shows that early access to relevant programs and services, and making contact with community early on contributes to better long term outcomes.”