Government of Canada helps youth prepare for jobs in Winnipeg

April 24, 2009

Winnipeg, Manitoba, April 24, 2009—Winnipeg youth will benefit from the Government of Canada’s support of a local employment project. Ms. Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan–St. Paul, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s economic environment, it is more important than ever that youth develop the skills needed to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Ms. Smith. “We are proud to provide young Canadians with an opportunity to gain the skills, knowledge and work experience they need to reach their full potential.”

The Millennium Program Consultants will receive $153,491 in federal Skills Link funding to support its Positive Action Program – 7. This project will help 44 youth facing employment barriers prepare for and find meaningful employment.

“We have worked with youth for over seven years, assisting them in finding full-time work that provides valuable experience and rewarding opportunities thanks to the Government of Canada,” said Ms. Yvonne Thompson, Principal Consultant, Change Innovators Inc. “Most of our young participants face significant barriers to employment. It is extremely rewarding working with these kids and seeing the value the program brings to their lives and futures.”

The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, communities and other stakeholders to provide Canadians with the training, skills and opportunities they need to participate in the workforce and contribute to their communities.

Skills Link 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.

The Skills Link program is delivered by Service Canada, which provides one-stop personalized services for Government of Canada programs, services and benefits. For more information about this program, call 1‑800-O-Canada, visit servicecanada.gc.ca or drop by your local Service Canada Centre.