Government of Canada supports canadian women's economic security

THOROLD, ON, April 3, 2012 /CNW/ - TARIO - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today announced Government of Canada support that will improve the economic security and prosperity of women and girls.

"Our Government's Economic Action Plan 2012 is focused on jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians and we are pleased that this project will help increase the economic security of women across Canada," said Minister Ambrose. "We are proud to support this project, which will empower women to take on self-employment initiatives, starting and growing viable businesses in their own communities."

The Women's Economic Council (WEC) is receiving $675,477 from the Government of Canada for its Empowering Women's Enterprises and Networks Project. This 36-month national initiative brings together community volunteers who have expertise in such areas as business, finance and management to mentor and support women from diverse backgrounds in planning and implementing a community economic development business. To carry out the project, WEC will partner with key women-led organizations in four sites across Canada: St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador; Thunder Bay, Ontario; Winnipeg, Manitoba; and Vancouver, British Columbia.

"The Women's Economic Council has an outstanding record of advancing women-centered community economic development, and improving the lives of all women, their families and communities across Canada," said Ms. Patricia Baxter, Executive Director of the Council. "This project carries on that work by empowering unemployed women to take on the challenge of self-employment initiatives, and thus improve their economic security and prosperity."

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls in Canada while strengthening families, communities and the country. Through Status of Women Canada, the federal government's support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, from $10.8 million to close to $19 million, its highest level ever.

For media inquiries only:            

Michelle Bakos
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Works and
Government Services and
Minister for Status of Women
819 997-5421

For all other inquiries, contact: 

Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General
Communications and
Public Affairs
Status of Women Canada
613 995-7839

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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, go to www.women.gc.ca.