CAREERS IN CANADA

WOMEN’S FUTURES PROGRAM HELPS WOMEN GET JOBS

The new program will help more women who are experiencing social and economic barriers connect to supports and develop the skills they need to gain financial security and independence. Image credit: PRADEEP RAJAN on Unsplash.

From ONTARIO MINISTRY OF CHILDREN, COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL SERVICES

The Ontario government is expanding the Investing in Women’s Futures program to 10 additional locations across the province, including Roots Community Services in Brampton.

This will help more women who are experiencing social and economic barriers connect to supports and develop the skills they need to gain financial security and independence. This expansion is part of a $6.9 million investment over three years to enhance the program and create more economic opportunities for women.

The Investing in Women’s Futures program provides a range of flexible services and employment readiness supports for women facing social and economic barriers, including those experiencing gender-based violence and social isolation. These services and supports help women overcome any barriers, increase well-being, build skills and gain employment. The addition of 10 new sites brings the total number of service delivery locations to 33, providing greater access for more women across Ontario.

“As a father of two young girls, I am incredibly pleased that the government is expanding the Investing in Women’s Futures program to 10 additional locations, including to Roots Community Services in Brampton,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, President of the Treasury Board and MPP for Brampton South. “This investment is ensuring that women and girls get the skills they need, and the jobs they deserve. The Investing in Women’s Futures program is helping us build a stronger Ontario for the future, for all Ontarians.”

In Brampton, the Investing in Women’s Futures program will be delivered by Roots Community Services through an investment of $318,590 over three years. The organization will deliver 12-week programs to help women heal from past trauma, build confidence, and work towards financial independence. The programs will include workshops on business, financial resources, and networking as well as peer support, self-care, and mental well-being seminars to prepare them for entering or re-entering the workforce.

“We deeply appreciate this opportunity to provide pathways for women who are experiencing social and economic barriers to gain skills and knowledge that will help them develop a solid foundation for a brighter future,” said Angela Carter, Executive Director of Roots Community Services. “Through our Social Enterprising and Entrepreneurial Development (SEED) program we plan to equip 75 women each year with tools to build on their individual strengths and collective support systems.”

In 2021-22, the Investing in Women’s Futures program helped more than 1,300 women across Ontario secure employment, start their own businesses or pursue further training and/or education.