Student Supports Learning Program (SSLP)
Program Background
Due to the global pandemic, there was an urgent need for increased connectivity as schooling transitioned to online learning. Through the SSLP funding, Friendship Centres across Canada were able to purchase laptops, increase capacity and better facilitate online learning and completion of homework.
Program Overview
The Government of Canada recently provided an additional $10.75 million in funding to support the Student Supports Learning Program (SSLP), a program serving vulnerable Indigenous children and youth across Canada. This funding is in addition to the three million previously provided to NAFC during the 2020-21 fiscal year. NAFC is administering the $10.75 million in funding to over 93 local Friendship Centres and six Provincial/Territorial Associations (PTA) to serve youth through their programming.
The SSLP aims to support equitable access to technology and learning supports through:
- Supporting Indigenous youth to continue their studies both academically and traditionally;
- Providing access to technology and learning supports; and
- Enabling the building of relationships between Indigenous youth, community members, mentors, tutors, and Elders.
SSLP Friendship Centre Highlights
On the Land Traditional Learning Project Photos
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Under One Sky Friendship Centre, Fredericton, New Brunswick | Lanaudière Native Friendship Centre, Joliette, Quebec | Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre, Midland, Ontario |
SSLP Resources
Click here for a one-pager overview of SSLP
Need Help with SSLP Final Reporting?
If your Friendship Centre has received funding for this program, please review our one-pager on the NAFC reporting requirements here.
NEW! SSLP 2021-2022 Interim Report
The NAFC SSLP Final Report 2020-21.
"SSLP funds supported us in providing a safe environment for local Indigenous youth at risk. Our Youth have access to Elders’ teachings and cultural immersion delivered through recreation, education, and mental health support while also developing life skills and health goals".
- Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre, Nanaimo, British Columbia
Interested in learning more about the Student Supports Learning Program (SSLP)? Visit our website to check out the newly released SSLP Interim Report that captures the value of investing in Indigenous Youth. See link for the interim report.
Contact Information
Natalie Cahill (she/her)
Project Coordinator
E-mail: ncahill@nafc.ca