There’s a new light of hope for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills as well as the Employment and Social Development Canada have announced a new employment project.
More than 300 residents of BC are expected to benefit from the Pathways to Engagement and Employment Readiness (PEERS)—a program that opens alternate routes to employment for struggling individuals.
It will ensure participants are given flexible and supportive work placements in a safe and welcoming environment with opportunities to make connections and gain confidence in a variety of jobs.
“This innovative project will provide crucial skills training and support to hundreds of British Columbians facing barriers to employment, empowering them to better participate and succeed in B.C.’s growing workforce,” said Randy Boissonnault, federal Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages.
This program and its services has been made possible by a $3.7 million investment from the Government of Canada and its Skills for Success program.
“The path to employment is not the same for everyone,” said Selina Robinson, BC’s Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
“PEERS is breaking down barriers and providing people with the skills they need to move toward employment while contributing to their community and seizing the opportunities in B.C.’s growing economy.”
As described in the release, the installment of PEERS is hoped to empower people experiencing or are at risk of homelessness and enable them to contribute to their community while receiving income or income support.
“The program has awakened me to see and recognize my skills and attributes as being important for my personal and my professional life,” said Genny Quintal, PEERS participant.
“I have discovered my hidden qualities and values are what make me acceptable as part of society and my community.”
It coincides with the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan to make post-secondary education and skills training more affordable, accessible, responsive and relevant—something the Province is actively working towards.
If you wish to learn more about the program and its services, you can visit their website.
