October 1, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Government of Canada funds a Skills Link project for youth in London, Ontario
LONDON, ONTARIO-The Honourable Joe Fontana, Minister of Labour and Housing, on behalf of the Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced funding of $497,169 for a youth project targeted to help 20 youth in Ontario.
Under the project, Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU) Reuse It, youth facing barriers to employment will gain work experience in recycling and waste management service. The project will include the manufacturing and sales of goods from recycled materials. Throughout the placement, the participants will also attend employability workshops to improve their job readiness.
"This project will give youth facing barriers to employment a chance to develop employment skills and have a positive impact on the environment," said Minister Fontana. "Twenty youth as well as the City of London will benefit greatly from this opportunity."
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada is providing financial assistance for this project through the Skills Link program, a component of the Youth Employment Strategy. The Skills Link program helps youth facing barriers to employment to acquire the skills, knowledge and work experience they need to participate in the job market.
The Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy offers three programs: Skills Link, Summer Work Experience and Career Focus. These programs provide flexibility to choose from a range of activities that can be tailored to meet individual needs.
Funding for this project was provided for in the 2004 federal Budget.
This project has been reviewed to ensure compliance with the Department's administration of its grant and contribution programs, and is subject to review under the Financial Administration Act.
For more information:
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
(819) 994-5559
For more information on programs under the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy, call the Youth Info Line at 1 800 935-5555, or visit our Web site at youth.gc.ca