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Ontario helping more women build skills, find jobs

February 1, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

Brian Saunderson, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Simcoe-Grey, has announced that the Ontario government is launching a call for applications and is investing $5.5 million, including an additional $496,000 this year, in the Women’s Economic Security Program.

The program aims to increase training opportunities for low-income women, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and experience to find a job or start a business and increase their financial security.

“This investment in the Women’s Economic Security Program will help more women across the province access training and support to overcome barriers, gain skills, and build rewarding careers,” MP Saunderson said. “I encourage organizations in the region to apply for funding so that more women in our communities have the opportunity to gain financial independence and achieve the success they deserve.”

The Women’s Economic Security Program offers training in four streams – skilled trades, entrepreneurship, information technology, and general employment. To help remove barriers, the training programs also includes additional support, such as providing meals throughout the training day, transportation to and from training, and support in finding child care.

Through the program, women, including those who have experienced or are at risk of intimate partner violence, can also access wrap-around support, including referrals to mental health and well-being support, counselling, housing, and legal support.

“The Women’s Economic Security Program is empowering women with the skills they need to join the workforce and help build Ontario together,” said Charmaine Williams, associate minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity. “We know that supporting more women in the workforce benefits Ontario’s economy, especially in in-demand sectors such as the skilled trades. These careers are exciting, provide good pay and benefits, and will empower women and girls across the province to succeed.”

Women interested in the program can visit online: Ontario.ca/women.

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