360 kids launches Queer Agenda program with support from Hydro One’s community fund

York Region initiative hopes to reduce barriers faced by 2SLGBTQIA+ youth

Yorkregion.com
June 28, 2023
Yoyo Yan

Markham-based 360 kids has launched its Queer Agenda program thanks, in part, to $25,000 it received through Hydro One’s Energizing Life Community Fund. With this funding, 360 kids has created a peer-led initiative with the purpose of reducing barriers faced by youth when accessing housing and shelter support.

Part of the QA mission is to combat homophobia and transphobia by offering education, resources and programming in a hybrid format, for both staff and young people in shelter settings and within the community.

“The biggest impact of this Hydro One grant will be the capacity to allow us to better serve the 2SLGBTQIA+ youth accessing our services,” said Jesse Vacarciuc, program co-ordinator, The Queer Agenda program. “With this grant, participants will receive gender affirming supports and social groups where they will engage in activities that allow them the opportunity to share their feelings, challenges and fears in a safe and supportive environment.”

“Hydro One is incredibly proud to support this program, which works tirelessly to build a better and brighter future for the community,” said Jay Armitage, vice president of communications and marketing, Hydro One. “Through programs like The Queer Agenda, 360 kids plays a critical role in helping kids in our community live their most authentic lives, and we applaud the centre’s dedication and commitment.”

Over the weekend June 17 and 18, 360 kids celebrated with all of York Region at the York Pride Parade. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the parade and the biggest event of the York Pride festival, which featured more than 2,500 participants and more than 50 floats. 360 kids presented information about its program offerings, including on topics such as queer identities and expression, queer, trans, Black, Indigenous, people of colour (QTBIPOC) intersectionality, community involvement and safety.

The Energizing Life Community Fund supports community-led initiatives that promote physical, emotional, and psychological safety and well-being for Ontarians. This year’s Energizing Life Community Fund grant recipients provide needed mental health services to families and children of first responders, rural and Indigenous communities, and seniors; foster environmental sustainability through art and recreation; and provide critical health services to ensure local communities stay safe and well.

To learn more about the Energizing Life Community Fund, visit www.HydroOne.com/EnergizingLife.