The BC government looks to help those dealing with job or education barriers by expanding Foundry’s employment program.
In a release, the province says they are investing $9 million to expand the Work and Education Program, a program designed to support people between the ages of 15 and 24 through integrated wraparound assistance such as health, mentoring, education, skills development, and job placement services.
Six Foundry centres will be added as part of the expansion, totaling the number of centres to 18 across BC.
Minister of social development and poverty reduction Sheila Malcolmson says employment can be a powerful tool for recovery and wellness.
Along with the services, the program provides supports and counselling for young people exploring their interests, as well as interventions, workshops, post-secondary education or certification programs to help develop their skills.
Of the 18 centres, three are located on Vancouver Island. That includes the Comox Valley, Campbell River, and Port Hardy.
