Kelowna, British Columbia — A local person with disabilities will get help preparing for long-term work as a result of the Government of Canada’s support for an employment program. Mr. Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna–Lake Country, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development.

“In today’s environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate and succeed in the job market,” said Mr. Cannan. “By supporting this project, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence.”

Canadian Debt Solutions will receive $3,600 under the Wage Subsidy component of the Opportunities Fund to hire a person with disabilities to perform collector duties. It is expected that the skills and experience gained will lead to ongoing employment for this participant.

“Canadian Debt Solutions is pleased to work in partnership with the Government of Canada to help an individual with disabilities gain valuable work experience that could lead to a permanent job and career within our organization,” said Ms. Deborah Waddell, President of Canadian Debt Solutions. “This partnership will enable this individual to obtain practical experience and skills, and in doing so, provide the opportunity of full-time employment, and the increased financial independence and self-sufficiency that a job brings.”

The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, community organizations and other stakeholders to make sure that Canadians get the training, skills and opportunities they need to participate in the workforce and contribute to the quality of life in their communities.

The Opportunities Fund helps support an array of activities, such as increasing employability skills, providing work experience and preparing individuals for self‑employment. The Government of Canada is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent Canadians from reaching their full potential with a wide range of effective policies, programs and services tailored to people with disabilities.

The Fund is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy to create the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world. The Government underscored this commitment in January when it introduced Canada’s Economic Action Plan. A key component of the Plan is to create more and better opportunities for Canadian workers through skills development.

To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.