"The YMCA is very excited about the Government's announcement of funding for the YMCA Youth Exchanges Program. Programs such as YMCA Youth Exchanges cultivate experiences that last a lifetime and will help create a new generation of young leaders able to communicate the unique nature of the Canadian federation to their peers," said Scott Haldane, President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Toronto.

"Activities such as those offered by the YMCA Youth Exchanges Canada Program help young people to better understand Canadian cultural diversity," said Minister Oda.

The funding is provided through the Department of Canadian Heritage's Exchanges Canada initiative which supports two-way group exchanges for Canadians between the ages of 12 and 17.