Strong Women Mean a Strong Canada: Guergis

WINDSOR, ON, Feb. 9 /CNW Telbec/ - The Government of Canada is supporting a new project that will help to improve the lives of young women across Windsor and Essex County. Today, the Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women), announced that the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County is receiving $87,626 for its project, Leadership 360, through the Women's Community Fund grants of Status of Women Canada .

"A healthy economy remains our government's top priority," Minister Guergis said. "All Canadians benefit when women are economically secure, physically safe and showing leadership across the country. Our investment in Leadership 360 will help more young women in the Windsor and Essex County area to reach their full potential."

Support for today's announcement comes from funding that is allocated to the Women's Community Fund by the Government of Canada . To qualify for funding, each project must work to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada .

"Over the past year, our government has listened to the concerns of groups and individuals across the country," said Minister Guergis. "As a result of these consultations, we have delivered funding for a national shelter network, supported the introduction of a bill to address human trafficking and helped to support community programs."

"Our 14-month project, Leadership 360, targets young women from 14 to 24 years of age, especially newcomers to Canada ," said Ms. Kathleen Thomas , Executive Director of the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County. "As we support and empower them, these young women will develop a range of skills that will contribute to their full participation in society, including financial literacy, employment readiness, an understanding of democratic participation and leadership training."

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

For further information: Emily Goucher, Senior Special Assistant, Communications, Office of the Minister of State (Status of Women), [phone]; Nanci-Jean Waugh, Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning, Status of Women Canada, [phone]