Toronto Youth Job Corps

The Community and Neighbourhood Services Committee recommends the adoption of the following report (March 4, 1999) from the Commissioner of Community and Neighbourhood Services:

Purpose:

This report provides updated information on the Toronto Youth Job Corps program (Attachment No.1) and makes recommendations regarding program funding.

Funding Sources:

The Toronto Youth Job Corps is currently funded 90 percent through Human Resource Development Canada (H.R.D.C.), Employer's contributions and the Province of Ontario. The remaining 10percent funding is provided by the City of Toronto.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that, subject to Human Resource Development Canada (H.R.D.C.) funding:

(1) the Commissioner of Community and Neighbourhood Services be authorized to enter into a funding agreement with H.R.D.C. for the operation of Toronto Youth Job Corps for the period April 1, 1999 to March 31, 2000, and to renew agreements with St. Christopher House and West Scarborough Neighbourhood Community Centre to deliver the program;

(2)the total cost of the agreement not exceed $1,094,100.00 gross and the City of Toronto's contribution to the program not to exceed $156,370.00 net for 1999;

(3)the program's name be changed to Toronto Youth Job Corps to be more reflective of the City of Toronto's recent amalgamation; and

(4)the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary action to give effect thereto.

Council Reference:

Toronto Youth Job Corps is an employment program designed to help severely disadvantaged youth aged 16 to 29 maintain and secure employment through counselling, life skills training, work experience and job placement. Throughout the program's 20-week duration the 180 participating youth are paid the minimum wage while developing generic work skills, increasing their self-esteem and improving their options for the future. It is anticipated that 80 percent of those who graduate will be successful in securing employment, returning to school or continuing with further training.

This target group includes many youth who have been in receipt of social assistance or are at risk of becoming dependent upon long-term social assistance.

Since its inception in 1983, the program has operated as a partnership among the Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto, H.R.D.C. and two community-based organizations, namely West Scarborough Neighbourhood Community Centre and St. Christopher House.

The Department's role includes negotiating funding with H.R.D.C., preparing budget submissions, contracting with community agencies, monitoring and ensuring the program's effectiveness. The community agencies deliver the program directly to eligible participants.

Comments:

Funding Proposals for the 1999-2000 fiscal year were submitted to H.R.D.C. in January 1999 and we anticipate full program support for this fiscal year.

The program is being funded through a number of sources. A submission has been made for Youth Service Canada funding (H.R.D.C. national program). Local H.R.D.C. funding is also being pursued through Employment Assistance Services. The Province of Ontario through the Job Connect Program supports the program by providing an employer subsidy. The corporate sector has made donations and employers themselves contribute by paying partial wages.

Conclusion:

Funds for the continuation of Toronto Youth Job Corps are included in the Department's 1999 Operating Budget.

City staff will continue to meet with H.R.D.C. officials to review our mutual objectives and clarify funding for all clients including youth.

Contact Name and Telephone Number:

Heather MacVicar

General Manager

Tel: 392-8952

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Attachment No. 1

1998 Toronto Youth Job Corps

Program Statistical Information