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New Funding For Those Facing Barriers To Employment

Friday, May 23, 2025 at 7:09 AM

By Jay Herrington

(PHOTO Government of British Columbia)

The Provincial and Federal governments are putting together $7.7 million over two years to create work opportunities for people facing significant barriers to employment.

“We want people to have the support they need, especially amid global inflation, increased cost of living and uncertainty from tariffs,” said Sheila Malcolmson, B.C. Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

“For those who want to work but face barriers, this funding will provide paid work experience and help them build a path to rewarding employment.”

Administered by United Way BC, the Work Experience Opportunities Grant will offer grants to non-profit organizations to create time-limited paid work opportunities for people on income and disability assistance and Indigenous people receiving equivalent federal assistance.

The program will provide additional income without affecting income or disability-assistance benefits.

The United Way’s Kim Winchell explains that participants receive paid, hands-on work experience in non-profits to improve their skills and employability, preparing them for in-demand jobs.

They’ll have access to career-transition services, including job-placement support, further training opportunities or mentorship that can help them in future careers.

This program is funded through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.

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