Our provincial government on Friday announced it is investing more than $100,000 to help protect children and youth from the dangers of online sexual exploitation.

Friday's announcement will have a direct impact on students in the Seine River School Division. Part of the funding will provide free access to the Commit to Kids program at all schools in Seine River. This program provides strategies, policies and a step-by-step plan for reducing the risk of child sexual abuse.

Students in the division, and their families will receive educational, age-appropriate resources dealing with issues such as cyberbullying, online safety, abuse prevention, exploitation and healthy relationships. Community organizations will receive posters, cards and other materials to raise public awareness of the issues related to the victimization of children. All materials are available in English and French.

Teachers in the division will also have access to the Kids in the Know program, which is used to help educate students about personal safety strategies that build resilience and reduce their likelihood of victimization.

Families Minister Heather Stefanson signed a proclamation on Friday, designating March 9 to 15 as Stop Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Week in Manitoba.