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Richmond-based non-profit gets funding to empower disadvantaged youth

Scotiabank is investing $600K in Rick Hansen Foundation's school program to help improve accessibility and inclusion in Canada.
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A stock image of a classroom.

The Rick Hansen Foundation will be getting a $600,000 investment from Scotiabank in the next three years.

The investment will benefit the Richmond-based non-profit's school program, which provides free lessons and activities in English and French from Kindergarten to Grade 12 to increase disability awareness, accessibility and inclusion.

The program, which has been running for more than two decades, also aims to empower young people through an ambassador system and annual awards.

Funding will be coming from ScotiaRISE, which has just renewed its partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation for three more years. ScotiaRISE is Scotiabank's initiative to "promote economic resilience among disadvantaged groups," according to a media release.

 "We are honoured and incredibly grateful to have Scotiabank renew their support of our school program" said Doramy Ehling, CEO of Rick Hansen Foundation, in the release.

She added that the non-profit's education work is "instrumental" for breaking down barriers and highlighting allyship.

"We recognize that through education we have the power to build a more inclusive and accessible society. This partnership will continue to inspire young hearts and minds and provide resources to teach youth the benefits of diversity, cooperation, and consideration of others."