WALKERTON, Ontario —People with disabilities will get help preparing for jobs as a result of the Government of Canada’s support for Community Living Walkerton and District.  Mr. Ben Lobb, Member of Parliament for Huron–Bruce, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Mr. Lobb. “By supporting this project, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence.”

Community Living Walkerton and District will receive $40,599 under the Enhanced Employment Assistance Services component of the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities. This project will help 22 people with developmental disabilities gain the skills they need to enter the labour market. 

“Community Living Walkerton and District is delighted to receive this funding and to demonstrate first-hand what Community Living offers to those receiving supports. Our goal—to ensure that all persons live in a state of dignity, share in all aspects of community living and have the opportunity to participate effectively—is realized in part due to the funding we have received from the federal government’s Opportunities Fund,” said Ms. Louise Hutchinson, Senior Support Worker. “We are appreciative of the partnership that has been established with Human Resources and Skills Development Canada to deliver this service.”

The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, community organizations and other stakeholders to provide Canadians with the training, skills and opportunities they need to get jobs and contribute to the their communities.

The Opportunities Fund helps support an array of activities, such as increasing employability skills, providing work experience and preparing individuals for self‑employment. The Government of Canada is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent Canadians with disabilities from reaching their full potential with a wide range of effective policies, programs and services.

The Fund 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. To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.