The Provincial Government is recognizing Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM), reaffirming its commitment to equity, safety and belonging. DEAM highlights the importance of creating employment opportunities for persons with disabilities while ensuring they have access to the supports needed to participate fully in the workforce.
Through the Supported Employment Newfoundland and Labrador program, $15.9 million is being invested to help individuals with intellectual disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain meaningful employment. The program provides individualized supports to adults and high school students transitioning into the workforce.
Funding for this initiative was provided through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement and the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Workforce Development Agreement.
This year, 15 agencies throughout the province are receiving funding through the program. Through personalized supports these organizations help people develop workplace skills, secure employment and succeed in their chosen careers.
DEAM is an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions persons with disabilities make to workplaces and communities, and to highlight the role employers can play in removing barriers to employment. The Provincial Government remains committed to supporting a labour market where all individuals have equitable opportunities to participate, contribute and succeed.
On October 1, the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development marked the beginning of Disability Employment Awareness Month by signing a provincial proclamation at Avalon Employment, alongside the Honourable Chris Tibbs, Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being. The proclamation recognizes the importance of inclusive employment and the contributions persons with disabilities make to workplaces and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador.
As part of DEAM, Confederation Building will be illuminated in purple today (Thursday, October 15) in recognition of Light It Up! for DEAM, helping raise awareness of disability-inclusive employment and the importance of creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Quotes
“An inclusive labour market is a stronger labour market. Persons with disabilities bring valuable skills, experience and perspectives to workplaces throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. By supporting employment opportunities and working to remove barriers, we can help more people reach their employment goals while ensuring employers connect with skilled and talented workers.”
Honourable Lin Paddock
Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to use their talents, pursue their goals and feel a sense of belonging in their community. Disability Employment Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the contributions persons with disabilities make every day and to recognize the importance of creating communities and workplaces where everyone can participate and thrive. Together, we are building a more inclusive Newfoundland and Labrador where all people are valued and are not limited by barriers.”
Honourable Chris Tibbs
Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being
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