Kelowna, British Columbia — Thanks to support from the Government of Canada, StandStrong Equipment Services will provide job training and work experience to a person with a disability. 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 projects like this one, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence.”

StandStrong Equipment Services will receive $10,800 under the Wage Subsidy component of the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities. This project will help a person with a disability gain the skills and experience they need to participate in the labour market.

“This program is extremely important. It helps show people with disabilities that there is support out there from the government and local community members to help them achieve their dreams and goals,” said Mr. Henry Stavast, owner of StandStrong Equipment Services, who was born blind in one eye and struggles daily with the challenges of a learning disability. “I am proud to be a part of this program, and I look forward to teaching others that even with the challenge of a disablity, anything is possible with the support and care of others.”

The federal government is working with the provinces and territories, community organizations and other stakeholders to provide Canadians with the training, skills and opportunities they need to get jobs and contribute to 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 with disabilities from reaching their full potential with a wide range of effective policies, programs and services.

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 its commitment to this strategy in 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.



Backgrounder

StandStrong Equipment Services is a mobile repair business that specializes in heavy equipment and vehicle maintenance. During a 48-week period, the participant will have the opportunity to learn the different tasks of a mechanic helper. The work experience and skills gained will lead to ongoing employment with the StandStrong Equipment Services team.

The Wage Subsidy component of the Opportunities Fund is designed to help Canadians with disabilities who have little or no work experience, and who are not eligible for Employment Insurance benefits. The Fund is available to employers to encourage them to hire people with disabilities.