FedEx Express launches child safety initiative in Toronto
FedEx Express Canada is funding a new initiative that seeks to reduce the incidence and impact of child abuse in Canada. Working with the Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness, the company launched FedEx Generation Safe yesterday, a program that will train community leaders to teach children skills they need to protect themselves.
The launch day saw child and youth safety programs delivered to more than 50 students from the MPS Etobicoke School in Toronto.
Created by child safety experts, programs tackle issues ranging from safety in the home, at school and in the community, including bullying and dealing with the internet.
Once trained and certified by the CCAA, community leaders can deliver the programs in schools, libraries, day camps, churches, scouting and guiding groups.
Ultimately, hopes are to deliver the programs to at least 20,000 Canadian kids by the end of this year alone.
Lisa Lisson, president of FedEx Express Canada, said: “FedEx has a long history of supporting child safety and education programs around the world, and it is our hope that the FedEx Generation Safe program will have a positive impact on children and communities across Canada in the years to come.”
Trish Derby, director of the Child Safety & Education Division of the CCAA, said the program would mean “empowered kids and informed parents” creating strong communities.
She said: “The generous support of FedEx is making it possible for us to train interested volunteers across Canada who in turn will deliver these innovative programs to children, youth and adults in their respective communities.”