In an effort to help get those out of work in the London area get back on the job, the provincial government is doling out $1.49 million for local skills training initiatives.
Ontario Minister of Labour, Training, and Skills Development Monte McNaughton announced the funding for six agencies and education institutions while at CityStudio London on King Street on Wednesday.
"This CityStudio London program is a great example of why we're making investments in training. It harnesses students' curiosity and problem-solving skills to benefit the City of London and advance the students' career prospects," said McNaughton. "New skills and practical, hands-on experience, which are on offer at all of the programs announced across the London area today, help students and job-seekers find good jobs and contribute to Ontario's economic recovery."
CityStudio, which is overseen by the Pillar Nonprofit Network in collaboration with the City of London, Fanshawe College, and Western University, will get a $214,000 cut of the funding to provide as many as 780 students with practical on-the-job experience.
Local post-secondary students training through CityStudios showcase their work at semi-annual open house events. Recent projects to come from the group include a best practices plan for recycling in city parks and the piloting of a social housing client survey.
Greenhouse Academy is among the other organizations getting a share of the provincial cash. It will receive $440,000 to train 540 young people for careers in landscaping, horticulture, and agriculture. Another $500,000 is going to Let's Talk Science to get 2,200 elementary and high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers.
The Habitat ReStore will receive $53,000 to teach general finishing, carpentry, and customer service at its Heartland ReStore location to 480 people.
Fanshawe College and Pathways Skills Development are getting $98,000 and $185,375 to help newcomers, indigenous people, and those in underrepresented groups train for window-and-door-installation industries and jobs in the manufacturing and construction sectors.