Nine innovative projects will receive $12 million from the Ontario government to assist up to 2,000 people who have left the justice system or have a prior criminal record in finding meaningful employment with local businesses, thereby fostering connections and a sense of community. In Ontario, more than one million people have a criminal record, which can dramatically increase the likelihood of long-term poverty and reduce chances of a second interview by 50%. Stable business has been displayed to assist with tending to the main drivers of wrongdoing and diminish the probability of somebody re-insulting.
Minister of Labor, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development Monte McNaughton stated, “Across Ontario, tens of thousands of people have paid their dues and just want to roll up their sleeves and give back.” Our government, led by Premier Ford, is convinced of the value of second chances. As we work to eliminate the stigma of having a criminal record, I encourage business leaders to join us.”
The programs that were announced today will prepare job seekers for well-paying careers in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, food and beverage processing, and other fields. They will be led by organizations from a variety of sectors. Through apprenticeship and technical training, on-the-job learning, and enhancing job readiness and interviewing skills, they will meet a variety of employment and training requirements. In order to ensure a smooth transition into the job market, the projects provide all-encompassing support in the form of mentoring, job placement, and mental health resources.
The Solicitor General, Michael Kerzner, stated, “We believe in second chances and in the inherent potential of each person.” No one will be left behind as we build a strong Ontario, even those with prior criminal records. By associating those with criminal records to abilities preparing, we are making more promising times to come and better days to come.”
In the coming months, the government will announce additional programs to assist people who have previously been in the criminal justice system. The Skills Development Fund is a $700 million initiative that supports ground-breaking programs that connect job seekers with the skills and training they need to find well-paying careers close to home. These projects are funded by the Skills Development Fund.
According to Terry Tsianos, Chairman of Scale Hospitality, “Minister McNaughton and his team have done incredible work to support training and skill development in the hospitality sector.” We have been able to provide at-risk youth across the Greater Toronto Area with valuable training that will help them transform their lives thanks to ongoing funding from the provincial SDF program. This year’s support will once again position the hospitality industry as a viable option for people looking for meaningful, well-paying work. We are appreciative for the administration of Chief Passage, Pastor McNaughton, and Clergyman Kerzner for their proceeded with help for abilities improvement and additional opportunity programs.”
