Service Canada has initiated a Canada Summer Jobs program, which focuses on encouraging not-for-profit organizations, public sector employers and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees to create jobs that not only meet their needs, but also benefit students looking to gain work experience.
This program is subsidized by the Canadian Government and offers successful applicants in the private sector (with 50 or fewer full-time employees) reimbursement of up to 50% of the minimum wage in Ontario for up to 16 weeks of full-time student employment. Effective March 31, 2010, minimum wage in Ontario will be $10.25/hr, which equates to a $5.12/hr subsidy.
If you are considering hiring a student to help you through the busy summer months, the time to act is now, as the application period for Canada Summer Jobs 2010 is from February 1 to February 26, 2010.
IBAO Member Offices that may be interested in applying for this program can do so online at www.servicecanada.ca; call 1-800-935-5555, or visit your local Service Canada Centre.
Before completing an application, IBAO Members are advised to consult the Canada Summer Jobs Applicant Guide (on the Service Canada website) and review the local priorities for your geographical area. Please note that applications should be aligned with the local priorities of a given geographical area in order to maximize the likelihood of your office becoming a successful applicant to this program.