KITCHENER, ONTARIO, June 27, 2011—The Government of Canada is helping people with disabilities gain the skills and work experience they need to reach their employment goals. 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 Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence.”
With assistance from the federal Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, K-W Habilitation Services will help 16 individuals with disabilities acquire the skills they need to find lasting employment or become self-employed. The individuals will take part in work placements that will allow them to gain hands-on experience leading to ongoing employment.
K-W Habilitation Services will receive over $71,000 under the Enhanced Employment Assistance Services component of the Opportunities Fund.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Ann Matejicka
Director of Communications
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
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 Enhanced Employment Assistance Services component of the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities 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.
The Opportunities 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.
