GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS IMMIGRANT AND NEW CANADIAN WOMEN IN ALBERTA

CALGARY, Aug. 31 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, the Honourable Diane Ablonczy,

Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament (Calgary—Nose Hill), today announced Government of Canada support for a project that will foster leadership skills among immigrant and new Canadian and refugee women and girls.

"As Minister for Status of Women, I am committed to working collaboratively with community organizations to address the challenges faced by immigrant and new Canadian women," said Minister Ambrose.  "Together, we are working to ensure that women have the support networks and resources they need to fulfill their dreams and participate fully in Canadian society."

Minister Ablonczy announced that Immigrant Services Calgary is receiving $169,122 through the Women's Community Fund of Status of Women Canada for its Integrated Women's Mentorship: Phase II project.

The Government of Canada allocated funding for this project through the Women's Community Fund of Status of Women Canada. To qualify, projects must work to promote equality, and the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada. Through Status of Women Canada, the Government of Canada'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.

"Our government believes women and girls across Canada must be able to take on leadership and decision-making roles," said Minister Ablonczy. "Through this project, Immigrant Services Calgary is creating opportunities for 270 immigrant and refugee women and girls in the Calgary area, meeting their unique needs as they build meaningful mentoring relationships."

"Our Integrated Women's Mentorship: Phase II project builds on Phase I," said Ms. Din Ladak, CEO of Immigrant Services Calgary. "During the 24 months of this project, we are building on clearly identified needs by increasing the quality of mentorship training for mentors, providing leadership training to both mentors and mentees, and increasing mentees' job shadowing and internship involvement in and exposure to the Canadian experience."

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.

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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 613-799-1609

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