Enhancing Support for Visible Minority Newcomer Women in Victoria
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Government Commitment to Newcomers
December 17, 2018—Victoria—Canada is committed to helping newcomers harness their skills and experiences to integrate seamlessly into the economy and community.
Women newcomers from visible minority groups encounter numerous obstacles, including discrimination based on gender and race, unstable jobs, low income, lack of affordable childcare, and limited social support networks.
Initiatives to Overcome Employment Barriers
Addressing Challenges for Newcomer Women
The Canadian government is taking action to address these hurdles by allocating up to $5 million over three years to ten organizations across the country. This funding aims to enhance employment support for newcomer women.
The Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria will receive an additional $310,000 to expand its workshops and seminars, which focus on multiculturalism, diversity, and workplace rights.
This funding will immediately boost the capacity of service providers to assist visible minority newcomer women by enhancing existing strong programs.
Building New Partnerships
As part of the three-year Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot, IRCC is also establishing new partnerships with women-focused organizations. A call for expressions of interest was announced on December 5, inviting organizations not currently funded by IRCC to apply for up to $7 million in program funding over three years.
Statements from Officials
“Employment is crucial for newcomers’ integration. Beyond economic contributions, it provides dignity and belonging. Visible minority newcomer women face unique employment barriers, such as discrimination and childcare challenges. I’m proud of our pilot program offering direct support to these women as they prepare for and advance in the Canadian workforce.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Important Facts
Visible minority newcomer women earn the lowest median income among newcomers at $26,624 annually, compared to $30,074 for non-visible minority women and $35,574 for visible minority men.
The unemployment rate for visible minority newcomer women is 9.7%, higher than the rates for visible minority men (8.5%) and non-visible minority men (6.4%).
Organizations interested in the EOI process should review the online Funding Guidelines and submit their interest by January 4, 2019.
Related Resources
- Expression of Interest: Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot Initiative
- Supporting Visible Minority Newcomer Women
Contact Information for Media
Media Contacts:
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQ
What is the goal of the Visible Minority Newcomer Women Pilot?
The pilot aims to provide direct support and enhance employment opportunities for visible minority newcomer women facing employment barriers.
How much funding is available for new partnerships?
IRCC offers up to $7 million over three years for innovative programs supporting visible minority newcomer women.
Who can apply for the EOI process?
Organizations interested in developing new partnerships with IRCC are encouraged to apply by reviewing the Funding Guidelines and submitting a letter of interest.
For more insights, read our immigration guide.
