Canada's New Government Invests in Langley's Youth

April 28, 2007

LANGLEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA - Mark Warawa, Member of Parliament for Langley, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, today announced $291,112 funding for Youth Enhancing Aquatic Habitats 2007 (YEAH), a project to help youth in British Columbia make a successful transition into the workforce.

"Canada's New Government is proud to support a project that will help students at risk make the transition into the labour market," said Mr. Warawa. "Today's announcement and our work with the Langley Environmental Partners Society reflect our commitment to helping young people who face barriers to employment acquire the skills, knowledge and work experience they need to participate in the job market."

The Township of Langley provided $123,877 in funding for YEAH 2007. "We are very happy to work in partnership with the Government of Canada and the Langley Environmental Partners Society. YEAH will be an effective project, providing young people with the life skills they need while addressing environmental issues within the Township of Langley," said Kurt Alberts, Township of Langley Mayor.

The 26-week project will help 20 at-risk youth overcome their barriers to employment by providing them with the life and job skills needed to make the transition into the labour force or return to school. As part of the program, the youth will develop a career plan, participate in a series of healthy-living and social life skills workshops, and work in teams on environmental protection and enhancement projects.

Service Canada is funding this project through Skills Link, one of Canada's youth employment programs. Canada's New Government is committed to improving opportunities for youth. It works with employers, community organizations and other levels of government to ensure all young people have the opportunity to develop their skills and become contributing members of their communities.

Service Canada brings Government of Canada services and benefits together in a single delivery network. It provides Canadians with one-stop, personalized service they can access however they choose-by phone at 1 800 O-Canada, Internet at servicecanada.gc.ca, or in person at Service Canada Centres across the country.