Nanaimo-Ladysmith is receiving funding that is expected to support more than 250 summer jobs programs in the region.
Canada Summer Jobs funding of $706,000 was announced today and Nanaimo-Ladysmith MP Sheila Malcolmson called it vital funding that will create meaningful job opportunities for young people.
“It’s a real win-win, because the money also strengthens our local economy by helping small businesses, not-for-profits, and public-sector employers grow their workforce,” she said in a press release.
The $706,000 represents a $74,000 increase from last year and is earmarked to support 252 jobs for students aged 15-30. According to the press release, 95 organizations in the region will see a share of the funding including Gabriola Island Recycling Organization, Growing Opportunities Farm Community Coop and Maranatha Church.
The student hires on Gabriola will help with the additional summertime workload at the recycling centre. Maranatha will add two summer students who will run free day camps at low-income housing complexes and help with the church’s On Eagles Wings ministry downtown that serves meals to marginalized citizens. The farm co-op will expand programming at its five-acre urban farm.
“The broad range of local funding recipients really speaks to the diversity of our community,” said Malcolmson. “I’m so proud of the important work these groups are doing to enhance cultural appreciation, support healthy development and boost food sustainability in our region.”
