Education and Community Building
Summer Success Literacy Camps Support Indigenous Students

High school graduation is a critical milestone that helps youth transition successfully into adulthood and contribute to their communities.
In Canada, there are significant gaps between non-Indigenous and Indigenous students’ literacy skills, reflecting the intergenerational harm of residential schools. During the summer months, many Indigenous students lose access to learning, belonging, and cultural programming, widening the gap even further.
United Way Saskatoon has partnered with Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS) to run Summer Success Literacy Camps every summer break since 2016. The program has hosted over 600 students, most of whom are Indigenous, helping them improve literacy levels. Indigenous teachers and summer interns facilitate culture and language programs, incorporating Indigenous content and hosting Knowledge Keepers and Indigenous artists. In 2024, the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan will join the partnership, offering support and cultural programming at various sites.
Funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) will provide essential resources for 100 students in 2024, including backpacks, shirts, and school supplies. Additionally, the funding will support training and salaries for teachers, help manage dozens of volunteer readers, and provide transportation to ensure students can attend the camps.
The Summer Success program is an important initiative to improve Indigenous students’ relationship with literacy and learning, ultimately increasing graduation rates. By fostering a supportive and culturally rich environment, the program helps bridge the literacy gap and create a brighter future for Indigenous youth in Saskatoon.
Diocese of Saskatoon
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