Over $1M in funding announced to support Sault Community Career Centre program

There is new federal money for Sault Ste. Marie's Community Career Centre.

On Friday, local MP Terry Sheehan announced just over $1 million for four years to support the Transition to Independence program.

It's a flexible and personalized initiative that helps more than 60 young people, ages15 to 30, who face barriers to employment that can include poverty or homelessness, not being enrolled in education or training, or being a recent immigrant or refugee.

Sheehan told CBC Radio said he's glad Ottawa is supporting the work already being done by the Community Career Centre, as it helps people develop skills for the workforce.

He saidthis program hits close to home for him.

"Previous to me becoming the MP here, I worked for the provincial Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities, where Ihandled apprenticeships, and second career retraining for people, and the career centre was one of our partners," he said.

"So I know full well the good work they have done for a number of years in Sault Ste. Marie."

Sheehan saidthis particular program is for youth who are at risk for a variety of reasons, and it helps them get on track, whether it's getting them back to school so they can get a Grade 12 diploma and become employed, or finding them some work, while addressing their obstacles.

He said thatacross the country, this program has had about an 80 per cent success rate.

"Helping young people facing barriers to find employment in our community and helpingthem develop skills for the workforce are ways we ensure that we remain a prosperous and thriving city," said Sheehan.

This is the second round of federal funding for the Sault Community Career Centre. It received fundingin August2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Thisfunding from the government of Canada allows us to provide a tailored approach to help each participant reach their full potential," said Adam Pinder, executive director of the Sault Community Career Centre.

Sheehan saidtheprogram also helps immigrants, refugees, and others who are new to the city with barriers they might face including language, cultural differences, and local rules and regulations.

"With newcomers, the team at the career centre is able to help address what the barrier is, and create an individual plan for success.There are settlement services offered there, and a variety of ways to help," said Sheehan.

In a news release, the federal government said creating opportunities for youngpeople to gain the skills and experience they need for a fair chance at financial successis key to strengthening our economy, building a more inclusive country, and ensuringthat no one is left behind.