Government of Canada Announces Funding for United Way of London and Middlesex
LONDON, April 2, 2002 -- On behalf of Minister of Labour and Secretary of State (Multiculturalism) (Status of Women) Claudette Bradshaw, Member of Parliament (London North Centre) Joe Fontana today announced funding of $89,678 for United Way of London and Middlesex, for Phase II of the "Coalition for an Inclusive Community" project."I am proud to support projects that contribute to a more inclusive and responsive social service sector for all Canadians," said Mr. Fontana. "The Government of Canada is committed to help people build stronger communities. This means our communities must work together to ensure that all Canadians enjoy the same rights and privileges, regardless of their origin, sexual orientation, or physical or mental capacity."
United Way is the sponsor organization for the "Coalition for an Inclusive Community." This project brings together clients, volunteers and employees of community agencies who are dedicated to making the social service sector more accessible to diverse ethnocultural groups in London. Phase I of this project received funding in the 1999-2000 fiscal year through the Multiculturalism Program, to promote the use of the Multicultural Anti-racism Organizational Change model within the social service sector. The major components of the model include community consultation and internal assessment of participating social service agencies. Phase II is also receiving funding through the Multiculturalism Program, to help organizations continue to employ this model and raise awareness of the necessity for anti-racism and diversity policies with new organizations.
Project Co-ordinator Sonia Dayal says fostering diversity within organizations is challenging work. "It's slow and it takes a lot of commitment and diligence on the part of agencies and communities. We're very excited to be moving into Phase II, as it provides us with an opportunity to continue building on our many successes."
Funding for this project was provided for in the December 2001 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.
Information:
David Klug
Office of Minister Bradshaw
(819) 953-5646
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