Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong announced last week that as a result of the federal government’s summer jobs initiative, students in Wellington-Halton Hills will have an opportunity to gain work experience and earn money for the coming school year.
Locally, it means 62 summer jobs for students with $174,802 in federal funding.
“The government’s top priority is creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity for all Canadians,” said Chong.
“Through Canada Summer Jobs, we are helping employers in Wellington-Halton Hills create 62 summer job opportunities for students, while strengthening our community’s economy.”
The program will provide up to 36,000 job opportunities and experiences for students across the country, he said.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s workforce, so by investing in them we are helping contribute to Canada’s long-term growth, competitiveness and overall prosperity.”
The program is part of the government’s Youth Employment strategy. With annual funding of more than $300 million, it helps youth – particularly those facing barriers to employment – obtain career information, develop employment skills, find jobs and stay employed.
The federal government’s economic plan is hoping to provide an additional $50 million over two years to enhance the youth jobs program so more young people can gain tangible skills and experience.
The funding will focus on connecting young Canadians with jobs in fields that are in high demand. Additionally, the government permanently increased the annual budget for summer jobs by $10 million in 2011.