KITCHENER, ONTARIO, April 7, 2010—People with disabilities will get help preparing for jobs as a result of the Government of Canada’s support for Kitchener‑Waterloo (K-W) Habilitation Services. Mr. Stephen Woodworth, Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.
“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Mr. Woodworth. “By supporting this project, our government is helping 16 Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence. This investment in the Kitchener area will benefit the program participants and future local employers.”
K-W Habilitation Services will receive $71,342 under the Enhanced Employment Assistance Services component of the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities. This project will help 16 people with developmental disabilities gain the skills they need to enter the labour market.
“Government of Canada funding has been instrumental in supporting adults who have a developmental disability, in establishing what they can do in the paid employment market,” said Ms. Ann Bilodeau, Executive Director of K-W Habilitation Services. “Being able to work and market directly with local employers has allowed for long-term relationships to be created and sustained. It provides the opportunity for detailed skill assessments in an actual working environment, and the person is able to experience first-hand the tasks of the job.”
The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, community organizations and other stakeholders to provide Canadians with the training, skills and opportunities they need to get jobs and contribute to their communities.
The Opportunities Fund helps support an array of activities, such as increasing employability skills, providing work experience and preparing individuals for self‑employment. The Government of Canada is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent Canadians with disabilities from reaching their full potential with a wide range of effective policies, programs and services.
The Fund is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world. The Government underscored its commitment to this strategy in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development. To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
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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 Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
Kitchener-Waterloo (K-W) Habilitation Services is a non-profit organization that provides support and practical assistance to people with disabilities. It offers services that enable these individuals to become more independent by helping them obtain employment or find a home. Between March 29, 2010, and April 1, 2011, the organization will provide 16 individuals who have developmental disabilities with enhanced employment assistance services and one-on-one support that will help them prepare for, obtain and maintain employment.
The Enhanced Employment Assistance Services component of the Opportunities Fund is designed to help Canadians with disabilities who have little or no work experience, and who are not eligible for Employment Insurance benefits. The Fund is available to eligible organizations to deliver employment-related programs and services that help people with disabilities integrate into the workplace.
