For release: November 10, 2005

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS SKILLS
ENHANCEMENT IN CHATHAM-KENT
Invests In Skills Training And Employment Program For
Adults With Intellectual Disabilities

QUEEN'S PARK - The Ontario government is supporting local skills enhancement by investing in a skills training and employment program for adults with intellectual disabilities, Pat Hoy, MPP for Chatham-Kent-Essex announced today on behalf of Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky.

"The McGuinty government is committed to meeting the top priorities for rural Ontario - strong people and strong economies, and success for students," said Hoy. "This new training program will ensure all Ontario citizens are given the right tools to prosper."

The Ontario government will contribute $30,350 to Community Living Chatham-Kent and its partner, Chatham-Kent Integrated Children's Services. The program will provide on-the-job opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities to help them develop new skills that will make them more employable and lead to permanent jobs.

"We are thrilled to receive this grant," said Lu-Ann Cowell, executive director, Community Living Chatham-Kent. "The grant will provide a wonderful opportunity for people who have an intellectual disability to work within their community. This employment is enhanced through the partnership with Chatham-Kent Children's Services."

Today's investment was made through the Rural Economic Development (RED) program, which invests in projects that support sustainable rural economies and community partnerships, and is a key part of the government's plan for rural Ontario. The rural plan provides a coordinated framework across government to build on rural Ontario's strengths - committed people, diverse economic opportunities, unrivalled resources and a solid sense of community.

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Contact:
Christopher Flavelle
Minister's Office
(416) 326-3072