BOLTON, Ontario — Local youth who face barriers to employment will get job preparation training and work experience through the Government of Canada’s support for an employment project. Mr. David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin–Caledon, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“For many young Canadians, making the transition to the job market is a challenge, especially in today’s environment,” said Mr. Tilson. “That’s why our government is creating opportunities for youth to succeed through support for initiatives like the Life for Youth project.”

With assistance from the federal Skills Link program, Caledon Community Services will help 24 youth develop the skills and experience needed to find a job or the confidence to return to school.

Project participants will work with career counsellors to develop action plans that will help them reach their employment and educational goals. Based on their action plans, the participants will be placed in jobs geared to their needs and interests, which will enable them to gain relevant work experience.

Skills Link helps youth facing barriers to employment, such as single parents, Aboriginal youth, youth with disabilities, recent immigrants, youth living in rural and remote areas, and youth who have dropped out of high school.

Caledon Community Services will receive over $335,000 in federal Skills Link funding to support its Life for Youth project.