Halifax, NS – Office of the Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women

The Honourable Peter MacKay, Member of Parliament for Central Nova and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, today announced Government of Canada support for two projects that will build leadership skills among young women in the Halifax area.

The HeartWood Centre for Community Youth Development is receiving $199,051 for a project to increase leadership skills and opportunities for young women in the Halifax area. The Immigrant Settlement and Integration Services Society (ISIS) is also receiving funding in the amount of$139,985 for a project that will increase leadership opportunities for young immigrant and refugee women. In both projects, participants will identify barriers that prevent them from taking on leadership roles and will work towards developing strategies to overcome these barriers.

Quick facts

• Since 2009, the Harper Government has delivered more than $15 million through Status of Women Canada for girl-focussed projects.
• Through Status of Women Canada, federal support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, supporting more than 600 projects across Canada.

Quotes

"As a government, we are committed to supporting the full participation of all women in the social, economic and democratic life of our country. That is why we are supporting these projects, because all Canadians benefit when women and girls of all backgrounds are empowered and equipped to take on leadership roles."

Dr. K. Kellie Leitch
Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women

"Our Government recognizes and believes in the tremendous leadership potential of girls and young women in our communities. We are very pleased to support these projects which will empower young women in the Halifax area to be leaders."

The Honourable Peter MacKay
Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada

"Communities benefit when we support diverse voices to be heard. Youth and women are often marginalized; however, they offer a wealth of skills and knowledge that need to be included for true success to happen. By supporting this project, the Government of Canada is helping to build the kind of communities where girls and young women of all backgrounds can contribute and excel."

Ms. Maria Cain
Executive Director, HeartWood Centre for Community Youth Development

"Our vision is for a community where everyone can belong and grow – including young newcomer women. Government of Canada support for this project is helping us address the unique needs of young immigrant and refugee women, and to strengthen their sense of community, their confidence and their leadership skills."

Ms. Claudette Legault
Director of Programs and Services, ISIS