Richard Froese
South Peace News
Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council (LSLIRC) has received a provincial grant of more than $170,000 to enhance local employment services.
LSLRIC was granted $180,000 as the government invests more than $20 million in Indigenous-led employment services, says a government news release June 26.
LSLIRC was one of 15 recipients and received the lowest amount of funding with other recipients allocated funds ranging from $211,900 to $4 million.
LSLIRC serves the communities of Driftpile Cree Nation and Sucker Creek First Nation east of High Prairie, Kapawe’no First Nation near Grouard, Swan River First Nation in the Kinuso area and Sawridge First Nation in the Slave Lake area.
Funding will support pathways to opportunity, prosperity and self-determined success.
Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney says the funding helps sustain Indigenous communities.
“Alberta’s economy is thriving and Indigenous peoples are shaping its future,” Sawhney says.
“Their knowledge and leadership strengthen our workforce and enrich our communities.
“Partnering with Indigenous talent isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart investment in a stronger, more inclusive Alberta.”
Assisted Living and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon echoes those words.
“Our partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations are an essential part of Alberta’s prosperity,” Nixon says.
“By investing in Indigenous-led employment services, we’re not just supporting individuals – we’re strengthening communities and building a more inclusive and resilient economy in Alberta.”
Funding supports Indigenous employment programs across the province to provide culturally grounded and community-drive services that connect Indigenous job seekers with the tools, training and opportunities to thrive in the workforce.
Specialized employment supports help remove barriers for Indigenous job seekers to match the needs and strengths participants and employers. Supports include career consulting, liaising with employers and employment and employment advisors, creating employment opportunities and on-the-job coaching to help participants maintain long-term and meaningful employment.