THUNDER BAY – Business – The Paro Centre and Ontario Government have team teamed up. The Ontario government is helping low-income and at-risk women in Thunder Bay develop new skills to gain economic independence and rebuild secure lives for themselves and their children. With $180,000 support from Ontario’s Investing in Women’s Futures program, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise will offer services to help women develop skills and abilities to open up new opportunities and reduce their risk of poverty and abuse.
Bill Mauro, the MPP for Thunder Bay Atikokan stated, “PARO has been in our community for many years, helping women learn the skills they need in education, counseling and employment. The program is tailored to the needs of the women in our communities, giving them the support they need to make a positive change. Through Ontario’s Investing in Women’s Futures program, we are proud to be able to provide $180,000 of support towards enabling these women to achieve their potential.”
“Today’s funding announcement from Ontario’s ‘Investing in Women’s Futures’ program will benefit PARO’s Making A Difference initiative. This programming supports women looking to start a business while creating jobs in Northern Ontario. Without it, many women would not achieve their economic goals. This program serves women who do not easily meet the entrance criteria of other employment programs. PARO is pleased to be able to continue to provide this initiative in Northern Ontario,” stated Rosalind Lockyer, Executive Director, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise.
Across the province, 25 centres will receive funding to deliver programs and services based on local needs that could include:
- Employment training and supports
- Occupational skills training
- Entrepreneurial skills development
- Education, information and referral to help navigate support systems
- Counselling for women experiencing abuse
Helping women develop the skills they need to succeed is part of the new Ontario government’s plan to build a strong economy and a fair society for the benefit of all.
“The Investing in Women’s Futures program helps women create a better future for themselves and their families. The training and supports they receive give them an opportunity to become financially secure and pursue new opportunities,” commented Laurel Broten, Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues.
QUICK FACTS
- Over 7,300 women will be helped over the next two years through the Investing in Women’s Futures program.
- 2013 is the 20th year the government has funded local women’s centres to help women in Ontario reach their potential.
LEARN MORE
- Find out more about Investing in Women’s Futures programs in communities across Ontario.
- See how other Ontario programs can help women achieve economic independence.
