STUDENT & FAMILY ADVOCATE PROGRAM
WHAT IS THE STUDENT AND FAMILY ADVOCATE (SFA) PROGRAM?
The Student and Family Advocate Program (SFA) is a Black community-based program designed to support Black families and students as they engage with the education system. There are 17 Black-led organizations with an SFA program across Ontario. HM Youth Foundation is one of these organizations.
Launched in May 2021, the Student and Family Advocate Program at HM Youth Foundation supports Black students and their families in navigating the education system. Running year-round, this initiative addresses educational disparities, systemic injustice, and structural barriers that negatively impact the academic outcomes and well-being of Black, marginalized and neuro divergent children and youth. Our Student and Family Advocates work through an Anti-Black Racism, anti-oppression, and cultural safety lens to create meaningful change. They empower students and families, advocate for responsive and equitable school systems, and foster positive student outcomes and a strong sense of belonging.
Should you wish to receive your services in French please contact Early Childhood Development Initiative (ECDI) at 416-357-7211 orinfo@ecdinitiative.org
Main Goals Of the SFA Program
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Create safe and affirming spaces where Black students and their families feel seen, heard, and valued.
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Offer culturally responsive support to help families identify and implement solutions that meet their unique needs.
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Deliver wrap-around services for students at risk of not completing high school, and those involved in child welfare or the justice system.
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Support schools with leadership and guidance on addressing anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination.
HM Youth Foundation is currently seeking funding partners to help expand the reach and impact of our programs, ensuring more Black youth and families have access to the support they deserve.
The Student Family Advocate program helped me receive support with a school situation where I was racially targeted and my teacher didn’t understand what I was going through. I was matched up with a Student Family Advocate who understood my issues of racism being Black herself, listened and asked me what I needed. She helped me in speaking with my school and the girls that were bothering me. The program also connected me to other students going through similar situations where the SFA helped us with healing from our experiences. I am so thankful for this program.- Jasmine.