Government of Canada increases support for job skills for Toronto youth
News Release
Breaking down barriers for youth including new Canadians and those with disabilities
March 14, 2017 Toronto, Ontario Employment and Social Development Canada
Canada’s prosperity will increasingly depend on young Canadians getting the skills they need to prepare for the jobs of today and tomorrow. As part of the government’s plan to help youth in the middle class, and those working hard to join it, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, announced today that over 1,300 Toronto youth will get access to critical training in a wide range of job readiness skills, as well as learn teamwork, organization and communication skills, thanks to a funding increase of over 50% from the Government of Canada. The majority of these youth are expected to be new Canadians and persons with disabilities, who can sometimes face greater employment barriers.
Minister Hajdu made the announcement at Toronto City Hall, accompanied by His Worship John Tory, Mayor of Toronto and Adam Vaughan, Member of Parliament for the Toronto riding of Spadina-Fort York.
Toronto Youth Job Corps will receive $11.6 million as part of a partnership between the Government of Canada, the City of Toronto, and the private sector. Toronto Youth Job Corps was created by the City of Toronto to provide critical job skills and training to Toronto youth facing challenges and barriers to employment.
The Government of Canada has increased funding by over 50% and extended the funding agreement from one year to three years because it recognizes that the job market is evolving and changing, particularly for young people, making our support more important than ever.
Over a three-year period, until March 2020, youth will get the opportunity to attend one of 21 sessions being offered. These sessions include job training and work experience. Participants will attend workshops and get one-on-one coaching for job search and interview skills. They will take part in a paid, 13-day team project in the community, plus a paid work placement geared to private sector employers lasting an average of 16 weeks.
Quotes
“I’m proud that our government is increasing our investment in this critical project for Toronto’s youth. With support and positive work experiences, young people can thrive, and move from a difficult situation to one of hope for a positive future.”
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
“This funding will help more than 1,300 young people in our city get the skills they need to be competitive in the job market. This partnership project is a great example of how our governments can work together to provide opportunities to our city's youth.”
– His Worship John Tory, Mayor of Toronto
“This Skills Link program will have a direct impact on the community. This project will enable youth to gain the necessary skills they need to actively take part in our society and enter the labour market.”
– Adam Vaughan, Member of Parliament for Spadina-Fort York
Quick Facts
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Since its inception, the Skills Link program has helped over 236,000 youth develop skills and gain experience to find a job or return to school.
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In 2015–2016, ESDC’s Skills Link program served 6,024 youth.
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Contacts
Matt Pascuzzo
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour
matt.pascuzzo@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
819-654-5613
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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