Building on the government of Canada’s commitment to improve inclusion and financial security of Canadians with disabilities, today, May 17th, 2024, Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, announced nearly $1,500,000 in funding under the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (OF) to support Spark Employment Services in Sudbury.

Over 24 months, Spark Employment Services will assist 40 participants with disabilities and 130 employers. This project aligns with the Opportunities Fund (OF) program objective to support persons with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment or to become self-employed, in order to increase their economic participation and independence and also to provide support to employers to help them make their workplaces more inclusive and accessible.

The OF brings together employers and employees with disabilities, to increase the participation of working-aged persons with disabilities in the workforce. The objective of the program is to assist persons with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and keep employment, advance in their careers, or become self-employed. Through the OF, more Canadians are able to achieve financial independence and participate in all aspects of society.

The funding announced today supports the Government of Canada’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan, specifically the employment pillar, and contributes to its ongoing commitment to create a truly inclusive Canada, free of physical, societal, and attitudinal barriers.

“We know that when everyone, regardless of their abilities has a chance to succeed, our community and our economy also succeed. This investment in Spark Employment Services will create inclusive workplaces and provide opportunities for persons with disabilities to connect with resources such as skill training and mentorship to help in overcoming barriers to participation in the job market.” – Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament Sudbury.

 

“Spark Employment Services is thrilled for the opportunity to launch the E.D.G.E.+ program designed to empower inclusion through program development, accessibility training, and by championing best practices for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Over the next 2 years we commit to being a resource that fosters inclusion and creates meaningful work opportunities for all. Our focus is on removing barriers and fostering mutually beneficial work opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities and enrich workplaces.” – Chantal Makela, CEO, Spark Employment Services.

Quick Facts

• According to the 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability, the employment rates of persons with disabilities are much lower than those of Canadians without disabilities —59 per cent versus 80 per cent.
• The Opportunities Fund (OF) helps persons with disabilities to overcome barriers by finding and keeping good jobs. It also helps employers hire and retain employees with disabilities. The OF funds a wide range of programs and services, including skills training, job search supports, pre-employability services, wage subsidies, work placements and hands-on supports to help employers create inclusive and accessible workplaces.
• In Budget 2022, the Government of Canada committed $272.6 million over five years to support the implementation of an Employment Strategy for Canadians with Disabilities through the Opportunities Fund.