YWCA Toronto opens new women-only employment programs

TORONTO, Aug. 5 /CNW/ - This week YWCA Toronto opens two women-only employment programs under the province's new Employment Ontario initiative, making it one of a handful of organizations in the province delivering women-only employment programs.

"Our experience tells us that many women thrive in the supportive and safe environment of our women-only programs," says Eva Pakyam, Manager, Employment Programs. "And we are thrilled to be able to offer women the support they need to succeed. We know what we are doing is effective because we have helped thousands of women find jobs and change their lives!"

"Women are often more comfortable in a women-only space talking frankly about their problems and working with staff and the other program participants to come up with realistic solutions," says Pakyam.

The women-only employment programs help women find jobs. A range of services are offered including access to jobs, training, child-minding, links to job placements and internships.

"The kinds of support that women need to find employment are often different than the ones men need. Women usually face different barriers - family responsibilities, low self-esteem and less formal work experience. We create a space in which women build their self-esteem, their skills, their resumes and their futures!" says Pakyam.

YWCA Toronto established its first employment program in 1875 and since that time has helped thousands of women find good jobs.

"Ontarians will now be able to access all the employment and training programs and services they need to find in one location," said John Milloy, Minister of Training, College and Universities. "This change is part of the McGuinty government's Open Ontario plan, which will better serve clients and give Ontario the most highly skilled and educated workforce in the world."

For further information: Sarah Blackstock, Director of Advocacy & Communications at 416-892-6845