The Ontario government is investing $1 million in a new initiative aimed at supporting Francophone survivors of domestic abuse by providing them with job-ready training in the skilled trades. The funding, allocated through the Skills Development Fund (SDF), will help these individuals build new lives by offering them the skills needed to enter high-demand professions.
The program, developed in partnership with La Maison d’Hébergement pour Femmes francophones, a Toronto-based non-profit shelter, is designed to offer comprehensive support to participants over a 12-month period. This includes not only vocational training but also mental health services and life skills coaching, tailored to the specific needs of the women involved.
“A career in the skilled trades is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to rebuild confidence and create a brighter future,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. He emphasized the importance of the partnership with La Maison in providing survivors with the tools they need to succeed from the outset of their new careers.
The initiative is also part of a broader provincial strategy to address the skilled labour shortage while strengthening Ontario’s Francophone community. Caroline Mulroney, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Francophone Affairs, highlighted the dual benefits of the program, noting that it supports the economy while fostering the preservation of Francophone language and culture through targeted training opportunities.
“No matter your starting point, a career in the skilled trades can offer a secure foundation for a fresh start,” added Patrice Barnes, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. She underscored the program’s role in empowering women to achieve independence and new opportunities free from fear.
Since its inception in 2021, Ontario’s SDF has been instrumental in training nearly 600,000 workers across various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. With the latest round of funding, the province’s total investment through the SDF has reached $1.4 billion, underscoring Ontario’s commitment to equipping its workforce with the skills needed for the future.