Ontario Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development Supports Salvation Army Ontario Trades Start Program in Wiarton

The Salvation Army Wiarton Community Church is pleased to receive $89,750 from Employment Ontario, through the Skills Development Fund, which will enhance their Trades Start program.

This funding from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development will allow for expanded Trades Start training and skills development opportunities in welding and hospitality while exploring other options such as merchandising and horticultural programming.

“The Salvation Army is very grateful for the support from the Hon. Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and the Government of Ontario. With mutual support this increased investment will leverage our Trades Start program to address the much-needed youth job training and skills development programs in Wiarton and the surrounding area, including Neyaashiingimiing First Nation,” says Captain Mary Millar, from The Salvation Army Wiarton Community Church.

“This will help young people in our area develop essential training and skills that will guide them in securing meaningful employment opportunities.”

“Our Government is on a mission to give young people the tools and confidence they need to find meaningful work and fulfill a life of purpose,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “This Salvation Army project will prepare unemployed young people in Wiarton for meaningful careers in the skilled trades, and a pathway to a better life.”

Trades Start is a hands-on training and skills development initiative designed to empower youth between the ages of 16-29 who are struggling with education or employment barriers with wrap around supports and resources to embark on a career pathway in the skilled trades or service industries.

Since 2014, more than 100 young people have successfully completed the program, earning credits toward high school or General Educational Development (GED) certification through adult learning.

The Skills Development Fund offers funding to organizations for innovative projects that address challenges to hiring, training or retaining workers, including apprentices, and The Salvation Army Wiarton Community Church is proud to have their Trades Start program recognized.