Multiple community agencies. One goal. To create a healthy, supportive environment for children and youth.
PYSUP aims to prevent or reduce substance use harms among youth by increasing their sense of belonging and connection. More than 15 community agency representatives have joined together to ensure the success of this work in our community.
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We understand the importance of connecting with youth and the people who support them. In 2025, PYSUP started working with school communities in Peterborough City and County. Work began at three high schools and their feeder elementary schools.
Our work currently focuses on specific Peterborough neighbourhoods. Using the momentum and lessons learned, we can grow this work across Haliburton, Kawartha, Northumberland, and Peterborough.
Our youth deserve a healthy, supportive environment. Creating one requires the active and collaborative participation of the WHOLE community.
YOUTH
PARENTS/GUARDIANS
OTHER ADULTS
SERVICE PROVIDERS
The Peterborough Youth Substance Use Prevention (PYSUP) Initiative began in January 2024. Peterborough Public Health (now Lakelands Public Health) secured funding as one of seven projects across Canada funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada's Youth Substance Use Prevention Program (YSUPP). This funding was the catalyst for our work.
In September 2025, PYSUP was successful in a second phase of the grant. Funding was secured for another three years. This funding ensures we can do the critical work of connecting directly with youth.
We are grateful for financial support from local community organizations. Thank you to the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough and HKPR CMHA Change the Cycle Fundraiser.
As our work continues we will need additional financial support to sustain the project in the long term.
The work of PYSUP cannot be done without the involvement of our community!
Young people, parents, and the whole community are all part of this work. We're bringing the community together to positively impact our young people's social environments!