The Ontario government has announced an investment of up to $1.47 million over three years through the Women’s Economic Security Program to support two crucial employment training initiatives for low-income women in Ottawa. The funding, aimed at empowering women and enhancing their financial independence, will be distributed between La Cité Collegiale and Minwaashin Lodge – Indigenous Women’s Support Centre.
This initiative is part of Ontario’s broader commitment to women’s economic empowerment, with a total of $26.7 million allocated over three years to support 25 programs across the province. These programs provide women with the skills, knowledge, and training needed to enter the workforce, start their own businesses, and overcome barriers to financial independence.
- La Cité Collegiale will receive up to $1 million to offer tailored employment skills training for Francophone women.
- Minwaashin Lodge will receive $476,000 to provide Indigenous women with education and skills to improve their employment opportunities.
Associate Minister Charmaine Williams, responsible for Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, highlighted the significance of these programs, stating:
“The Women’s Economic Security Program empowers women to achieve financial independence by breaking down barriers to career training opportunities. I’m proud of our government’s continued support for local, community-based training programs that help women across the province reach their full potential and achieve the career success they deserve.”
The Women’s Economic Security Program offers training in several key areas, including skilled trades, entrepreneurship, and information technology. Additional supports are provided, including meals, transportation, and child care to help participants fully engage in the programs.
Women facing or at risk of intimate partner violence are also given access to wraparound supports, such as mental health referrals, housing assistance, and legal advice.
This investment is part of Ontario’s four-year action plan to prevent and address gender-based violence, and works alongside the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, with Ontario contributing up to $11.7 million through a bilateral agreement with the federal government.