Nipissing gets new summer jobs program for youth

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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This summer, 140 disadvantaged youth in Nipissing are getting the chance to gain valuable work experience.

The jobs are being offered through the Youth Opportunities Strategy, which helps at-risk youth gain skills and experience with local employers and police services. The province has doubled the number of jobs available through the program – bringing the total to over 4,000 across the province.

Locally, YES! Employment Services Inc. (Nipissing) has recruited employers and youth in the Summer Jobs for Youth program, and under the Youth in Policing Initiative, North Bay Police Services has recruited one youth interested in a career in policing.

Expanding the Youth Opportunities Strategy is part of the McGuinty government’s poverty reduction strategy, which sets a target of reducing the number of children living in poverty by 25 per cent over 5 years – that’s 90,000 kids.

“This program gives our youth the opportunity to get some real work experience under their belt while gaining confidence and learning new skills,” said Nipissing MPP Monique Smith.

“Getting that first job can be a challenge. That’s why we’re helping youth get that all important summer job so they can develop skills that will lead to future opportunities,” said Deb Matthews, Minister of Children and Youth Services.

“The Youth Opportunities Strategy allows 15 to 18 year old at-risk youth to develop new skills and gain valuable workplace experience. Summer employment builds confidence, encourages youth to return to school and assists young people to reach their full potential. The Summer Jobs for Youth is a great investment in our local youth and our community,” said Gisele Cousineau, CEO for YES! Employment Services Inc. (Nipissing).

QUICK FACTS

 In 2008, nearly 2,000 youth across the province gained valuable skills and experience through the Youth Opportunities Strategy.

 In 2009-2010, the total investment for the Youth Opportunities Strategy is more than $21 million, nearly double last year’s investment. The federal government is supporting part of this expansion.

 The program began in Toronto in 2006, expanding to Windsor, Durham Region, Thunder Bay, Ottawa, Hamilton and London in 2007. Another 17 communities across the province were added to the program this year.

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