TheROC in Prince Edward County is seeking additional funding.
During Thursday’s Committee of the Whole meeting, Hillary Fennell, Community Relations for theROC, presented a deputation requesting funding from Prince Edward County.
The request is for $90,000 per year for the remainder of the current term of council, and if granted there are plans to use the funds to support their existing programs.
TheROC has been providing support services for the municipalities’ youth for 23 years, at no cost to youth or their families. Currently theROC provides both food supports and mental health resources.
During the 2022 to 2023 school year, theROC performed 4781 mental wellness check-ins and provided 7226 instances of food aid. During the first two months of the current school year, visits to theROC centre in Picton were up over 50%.
Councillor Bill Roberts said that theROC was an important resource for local youth.
“I think one of the things that people may not understand is that theROC isn’t just hanging out,” said Councillor Roberts. “TheROC provides. I’ve seen it, I have attended theROC. It’s a sanctuary from abuse.”
The committee referred the funding request to the upcoming 2024 budget process with municipal council.
