A local food bank is gaining an events coordinator and a local resident is gaining valuable work experience through Job Creation Partnership funding from the provincial government.

The Agassiz-Harrison Community Services Society is receiving $25,629 to provide up to 52 weeks of on-the-job experience for one eligible participant to learn and carry out marketing, fundraising activities, and volunteer co-ordination for its food bank.

Job Creation Partnerships are a component of the Community and Employer Partnerships fund, launched in April 2012 as part of the Employment Program of BC. Community and Employer Partnerships increase employment opportunities for unemployed British Columbians through the use of community-based partnerships, shared information, technology and innovation.

To date, more than 340 job seekers have benefited from approximately 100 Community and Employer Partnerships throughout the province.

Quotes:

Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation Don McRae -

“Helping communities, building skills, and giving people relevant work experience to gain a foothold in the labour market - these are the strengths of B.C.’s Job Creation Partnerships fund and I am pleased to help the Agassiz-Harrison Community Services Society as it gives back to the community in so many ways.”

Chilliwack-Hope MLA Laurie Throness -

“We are partnering with the AHCSS to help them update and modernize their operations. The participant in this program will gain valuable work experience and provide a beneficial service to the AHCSS, including the food bank.”

Agassiz-Harrison Community Services Society project holder Grace Admiraal-Blansjee -

“We are looking forward to expanding the profile of the food bank, enhancing its connection with the communities, partners and contributors which is made possible by the Job Creation Partnership. It allows us to better serve the needs of our communities and make valuable connections within the Agassiz-Harrison area.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2014/15, the ministry has committed to investing $331 million in employment and labour market programs under the Employment Program of BC.
• The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Province of British Columbia as well as the Government of Canada through the Labour Market Development Agreement.
• Funding supports 85 WorkBC Employment Services Centres throughout the province and the four components of the Community and Employer Partnerships fund:
  • Job Creation Partnerships
  • Labour Market Partnerships
  • Project-Based Labour Market Training
  • Research and Innovation
• Community and Employer Partnerships are also part of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint that helps align training and education with in-demand jobs and provides more support to those who are struggling to gain a foothold in the job market or who face unique challenges.

Who is eligible?

• Businesses
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Municipalities, Agencies or Territorial Governments
• Bands/tribal councils
• Public Health and Educational Institutions

Learn More:

For more information on Community and Employer Partnerships: www.workbc.ca/CEP

Find a local WorkBC Employment Services Centre: www.workbccentres.ca

Learn more about the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation: www.gov.bc.ca/sdsi

Media Contacts:

Grant Kerr
Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation
250 387-5635