Province investing over $2M in free training projects for newcomers seeking employment

The provincial government is investing $2.6 million in four free training projects to help more than 300 newcomers, including displaced Afghans and Ukrainians, find jobs with local employers.

Led by Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto, Matthew House Ottawa, Toronto Artscape, and UTIMUS, the programs announced will prepare jobseekers for careers in manufacturing, finance, administration, communications, hospitality and the arts. Participants will have the chance to explore a range of employment and training options through paid internships, job placements, language training and digital literacy courses.

Matthew House Ottawa is receiving $137,850 for their project, which will hire and train 15 newcomers at the Refugee Services and Furniture Bank for eight to 10 weeks and help them in finding longer-term employment opportunities.

“We are grateful to Minister McNaughton and the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development for this funding to continue our meaningful and effective employment program,” said Allan Reesor-McDowell, executive director of Matthew House Ottawa. “Our Newcomer Training and Employment Program provides an important avenue to support refugees and newcomers on their path to long-term, stable, sustainable employment and it is making a big impact in the lives of program participants, local businesses and our broader community.”

Jobseekers will have access to help with resume writing, improving interview skills, and other tailored support to help them find and retain long-term employment. Training – including for Afghan and Ukrainian arrivals – will be delivered in Ottawa, Toronto, Hamilton and online and will match participants’ skills with the needs of businesses hiring in their communities.