Workers in Ontario's agribusiness industry will receive enhanced support, thanks to funding from Queens Park.
Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Agribusiness Rob Flack was at the South Essex Community Council's (SECC) Kingsville office on Friday afternoon, announcing a four-year, $1.5-million commitment to provide a welcoming environment for international agri-food workers (IAWs).
The money is part of the IAW Welcoming Communities Initiative.
Flack said the agribusiness industry in southwestern Ontario is more vital than ever.
"One in nine jobs in Ontario make their living in the agriculture sector," said Flack. "We've increased that by almost 30,000 since 2002."
The funding will be used by organizations like the SECC for programs designed to make the IAWs' stay in Ontario comfortable and rewarding. The programs include translation support, language courses, transportation services, plus cultural and recreational activities.
"Our government is grateful for the contributions they make to our province, and this initiative is a reflection of our commitment to enhance their well-being and quality of life while here in Ontario," said Flack.
Intake for the initiative will begin on October 8 and run through November 19. Successful applicants will receive up to 75 per cent in cost-share funding per application, up to a maximum of $100,000.
This year, the province was expected to welcome 27,000 IAWs through the federal government's Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program.
