GOVERNMENT OF CANADA SUPPORTS IMMIGRANT WOMEN AND GIRLS IN NEWFOUNDLAND AND
LABRADOR

ST. JOHN'S, Oct. 15 /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 improve the economic situation of immigrant women and girls.

"With the support of our government, many women in St. John's will have the opportunity to develop essential leadership 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 Multicultural Women's Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador will receive $45,040 for its project, A Culturally Appropriate Gendered Approach to Improving Immigrant Women's and Girls' Economic Security through Leadership Skill Develop. The 12-month project will focus on engaging newly arrived immigrant women and girls in the St. John's area to build their leadership skills and prepare to enter the Canadian workforce.

"We are very pleased to have the Government of Canada's support for this exciting new project, which will help new immigrant women of all ages prepare to enter and be productive in the local work force," said Ms. Victoria Jalloh, President of the Multicultural Women's Organization of Newfoundland and Labrador. "Through culturally adapted workshops, participatory focus groups and empowerment sessions, the 75 women participants will have the chance to significantly increase their leadership and decision making skills and participate in our region's economic development."

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 these 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