GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR WOMEN IN VICTORIA

VICTORIA, Oct. 14 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today announced Government of Canada support for a project to increase financial literacy and self-sufficiency among women residents of transitional housing in Victoria.

"With the support of our government, many women in Victoria will have the opportunity to develop essential financial literacy skills," said Minister Ambrose. "This important project will encourage participants to secure a better economic future and improve the quality of life for themselves and their families."

The Cridge Centre for the Family will receive $44,246 for the 36-month Cridge Asset Building Project. The project will help 36 women living in transitional housing to become self-sufficient through a comprehensive program that encompasses financial literacy, goal planning and value appreciation.

"We are very pleased to have the Government of Canada's support for this exciting new project, which will help vulnerable women develop the skills and awareness they need to set goals and become self-sufficient," said Ms. Shelley Morris, Chief Executive Officer of the Cridge Centre for the Family. "At the end of the project, participants will have developed savings habits and have the confidence, stability and means to provide for themselves and their families."

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

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

For further information:

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

Nanci-Jean Waugh Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning Status of Women Canada 613 995-7839