Job matching initiative will boost youth employment, skills in the Saint John region
News release
Federal funding to support career-focused opportunities for New Brunswick high school students
February 24, 2025 · Saint John, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Providing Canada’s youth with opportunities to acquire important skills and work experience is crucial to building a strong and sustainable workforce of the future. The Government of Canada is investing in a Saint John organization to help local businesses address urgent hiring needs, while giving high school students employment and skills building opportunities.
Today, Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John – Rothesay, announced a non-repayable contribution of $149,250 to Kaleidoscope Social Impact Inc. (Kaleidoscope). The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
This investment will support Kaleidoscope in developing an employee pipeline for businesses by matching the skills and aptitudes of local high school students with part-time employment opportunities in the Saint John region. This initiative will allow students to gain essential skills, knowledge and experience in multiple sectors, such as hospitality, tourism and trades. The project will support the part-time employment of 20 students in 2025.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to supporting youth employment and addressing the labour needs of SMEs to build a stronger, more resilient economy in Atlantic Canada.
Quotes
“When we invest in young people, we are investing in our future. This funding from your federal government will help Kaleidoscope give high school students real work experience and skills they can carry with them for life. Plus, it helps local businesses fill jobs and keep things running smoothly.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“This project is a win-win for our community. It helps students gain practical work experience while supporting local businesses in finding the skilled workers they need. We are proud to support Kaleidoscope in this important initiative.”
- Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John-Rothesay
“Kaleidoscope Social Impact is very excited to support local businesses and organizations with the talented pool of high school students enrolled in our new ‘School to Work Pipeline’ program. Our students are eager and ready to engage in the economy. Thanks to the support of ACOA we can strengthen and empower young people and our local business owners and build self-sufficiency."
- Seth Asimakos, General Manager, Kaleidoscope Social Impact Inc.
Quick facts
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Kaleidoscope Social Impact aims to help individuals and organizations attain greater self-reliance and improve social conditions through entrepreneurship.
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Funding for this project is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Emilie Williams
Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
emilie.williams@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Michele Lodge
Program Coordinator
Kaleidoscope Social Impact Inc.
506-645-7395
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