by Hon. Bob Nault MP
KENORA – POLITICS – In the ever-changing economy, Canada’s prosperity is dependent on young people in Northwestern Ontario getting the education and experience they need to successfully start their careers. Through the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program, employers can receive funding to hire a young Canadian between the ages of 15 and 30. Employers in the North are encouraged to apply online for CSJ 2019 funding until January 25, 2019.
Summer jobs are a great way for youth to gain skills and valuable experience to help build their resumes, all while earning an income. They also help organizations fill labour gaps, especially during the busy summer months. Since its inception in 2007, the CSJ has funded thousands of employers to create hundreds of thousands of student jobs.
Our national priorities this year focus on organizations which provide services to, youth who self-identify as being part of the groups which are underrepresented or have additional barriers to participate in the labour market. We’re also focusing on work experience related to the skilled trades, opportunities for youth in rural areas, remote communities, small businesses and organizations which provide support to seniors.
Not-for-profit employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial adult minimum hourly wage.
Not-for-profit employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial adult minimum hourly wage. Public and private sector employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 50% of the provincial or territorial adult minimum hourly wage.
This year, the Government of Canada has made some improvements to the program, including reducing barriers to good quality jobs by expanded eligibility to include all youth between the ages of 15-30 who are legally entitled to work in Canada – not just students. We’ve also updated eligibility rules to reflect what is and isn’t eligible for funding. Finally, to ensure that Northerners can apply to jobs near them, all positions will be posted on jobbank.gc.ca and on the app, to get the word out and help match young people with employers and good quality jobs.
Hiring a youth brings new energy and ideas into the workplace. As an employer in the CSJ program, not only will this provide you with additional resources, you will also help your local economy by creating good quality jobs while providing our youth with the skills they require to succeed in the future.
If you have questions or require assistance with your CSJ application, please reach out to my offices at 1-866-710-0008 or via email at bob.nault@parl.gc.ca.
