Mississauga, ON – May 2026
Sikhs Serving Canada Association (Seva Food Bank) is proud to recognize the support of the Rogers Youth Grant in 2025, awarded to help strengthen the delivery of our flagship GRIT Program, an innovative youth mentorship initiative that empowers young people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to succeed.
The Rogers grant supported the Youth Empowerment Academy project submitted through the grant program, contributing towards the broader GRIT initiative. While the overall program required significantly greater community investment, Rogers’ funding helped reduce barriers to participation for 30 youth by supporting participant meals, educational materials, transportation for experiential learning, and specialized workshops.
Delivered in partnership with Peel Regional Police and Associated Youth Services of Peel (AYSP), the eight-week GRIT Program provides mentorship, life skills training, and hands-on learning opportunities for youth facing significant challenges, including involvement with the youth justice system, mental health concerns, family instability, and socioeconomic barriers. Practical life skills, including cooking, professional etiquette, teamwork, and problem-solving, were combined with mentorship from community leaders, police officers, and professionals who encouraged youth to recognize their strengths and pursue new opportunities.
The program welcomed youth from diverse backgrounds, including newcomers, racialized youth, young women, and those experiencing barriers to education and employment. By connecting participants with trusted mentors, community resources, and pathways to education and meaningful employment, GRIT continues to help young people build brighter futures.
We are grateful to Rogers for investing in youth and supporting this important initiative. Community partnerships like these make it possible to expand opportunities for vulnerable youth and ensure they have the tools, guidance, and encouragement to reach their full potential.
