A groundbreaking initiative is aiming to curb youth substance use in Lanark County by tackling issues before they start.
Planet Youth Lanark County (PYLC), Open Doors for Lanark Children & Youth, and the Lanark County Youth Centre Coalition are leading the charge in “creating a culture of upstream prevention.” With funding from provincial, federal, and private sources, action plans are being developed in collaboration with the Upper Canada District School Board and the South East Health Unit.
“This initiative isn’t just about reducing harms,” said Sharon Ruth, Executive Director of Carleton Place Youth Center. “It’s about fostering a generation of healthier, more empowered young people.”
A key concern is youth sleep deprivation, with 66% of grade 10 students getting less than eight hours per night. A partnership with the Canadian Sleep Research Consortium will address this.
