Ontario Driving Economic Growth in Glengarry-Prescott-Russell

Province investing $142,132.00 to help boost local economy

Today, Stéphane Sarrazin, MPP for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell announced that Centre de services à l’emploi will receive up to $142,132.00 in funding through the latest intake of the Rural Economic Development (RED) program. The RED program supports projects that diversify and grow local economies, build community capacity and address barriers to economic development and labour force challenges.  

The funding will help to launch an international talent acquisition and recruitment program, train employers, HR staff and workers to encourage long term employment of newcomers leading to regional economic development impacts and increasing and retaining skilled labour force.

Through the most recent intake of the RED program, the Ontario government is investing more than $5.7 million in 85 projects throughout the province. These projects  are helping create jobs and boost economic development in rural communities in Ontario. The intake for these approved projects closed on February 21, 2024.

“This investment from our government plays a crucial role in the economic development of Glengarry–Prescott–Russell. By attracting and retaining skilled talent, we are creating sustainable job opportunities for newcomers and supporting the growth of our region. We remain committed to strengthening our rural communities and helping them thrive, thereby contributing to the economic prosperity of Ontario.” said Stéphane Sarrazin, Member of Provincial Parliament for Glengarry–Prescott–Russell.

“Our government recognizes the importance of rural economic development, and this program provides municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits with the funding they need for projects that contribute to local economic vitality,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “The Rural Economic Development program is another example of how our government is ensuring small towns and rural communities across Ontario continue to share in the province’s growth and economic prosperity.”

“The CSEPR is grateful for the financial support received from the provincial government through the DECOR program, which will help facilitate access to international recruitment services for SMEs. In collaboration with our recruitment agency, Contak, eligible SMEs will be able to benefit from substantial savings. In addition, employer training will be provided to help them enhance their ability to retain their workforce in a context of high worker mobility. This initiative is part of a broader effort led by CSEPR and its partners to support the long-term sustainability of the Eastern Ontario economy, which relies on our SMEs. ” said Caroline Arcand, Executive Director of Centre de services à l’emploi de Prescott-Russell

The RED program provides cost-share funding support towards activities that create strong rural communities. This includes funding assistance to build local capacity and improve job prospects. The Rural Economic Advisory Panel provides recommendations to the minister on applications for funding. The RED program aligns with the government’s priorities of removing barriers to investment, opening doors to rural economic development, and creating good jobs across the province.

MEDIA CONTACT  

Noémie Prevost
Communications and Public Relations Office of MPP Stéphane Sarrazin
613 677-8347
noemie.prevost@pc.ola.org