OTTAWA, ONTARIO, January 23, 2009-Family Literacy Day will be marked on January 27th by the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, who encourages Canadian families to include reading and other literacy activities in their daily routines.
"Improved literacy and essential skills help adults function better in their families, communities and the labour market," stated the Minister. "With this in mind, the Government of Canada is taking action to ensure Canadian adults have the necessary skills to be able to play an important role in the lives of their children and their communities by supporting organizations across the country who work to support literacy.
"Every year, thousands of Canadians participate in Family Literacy Day activities across the country. Family Literacy Day is a great way to rally Canadian communities and help raise awareness for the benefits of adults and children reading and learning together, said Margaret Eaton, President, ABC CANADA Literacy Foundation. "Only 15 minutes of family reading a day helps a parent and a child in very big way. It prepares children for challenges ahead, encourages a lifetime of reading enjoyment, and sharpens an adult's literacy skills."
Since 1999, Family Literacy Day has been celebrated every January 27 as a national initiative that promotes the importance of reading and learning together as a family. Family Literacy Day originated with ABC Canada Literacy Foundation and founding Family Literacy Day sponsor, Honda Canada.
"Today it is more important than ever to provide all Canadians with the opportunity to work hard, raise a family and make a better life, and the Government of Canada is breaking down barriers that prevent Canadians from reaching their full potential," said Minister Finley.
The Government of Canada works collaboratively with partners to ensure that Canadians have the literacy and essential skills they need to take advantage of opportunities and build better futures. In this context, the Office of Literacy and
Essential Skills of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRDSC) recently issued two calls for proposals for projects that will help people improve their literacy skills so they are able to get jobs and participate more fully in their families and communities. For more information, visit http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/workplaceskills/oles/olesindex_en.shtml.
HRDSC also supports family literacy through the Family Literacy Initiative under the Roadmap for Linguistic Duality in Canada, with total funding of $7.5M over 5 years (2008-2013).
To celebrate Family Literacy Day, many organizations across the country have organized special events. For more information on these activities and to obtain useful tips on how to integrate literacy into your family activities, visit the ABC Canada Web site at www.abc-canada.org or the Fédération pour l'alphabétisation en français Web site at www.fcaf.net
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Social Development
819-994-5559
