Services for residents

Employment projects

NOVEMBER 2008 marked the end of a busy year for Toronto Employment and Social Services. The division changed its name, released a pivotal report, and launched a new web page and online application.

These changes are the start of a new approach to employment and social service delivery in Toronto.

“First of all, we feel our name now better reflects the work that we do,” says Heather MacVicar, General Manager of the division formerly known as Toronto Social Services. “After all, our employment services play a big role in how we strengthen the social and economic well-being of Torontonians in their communities.”

A press conference was held in November to announce the name change and to release Toronto Employment and Social Services’ latest report, Starting in the Right Place.

The report sets out a service delivery system that “responds to the needs of Torontonians, removes barriers and creates opportunities for success,” said Mayor David Miller. “Starting in the Right Place is about providing residents with a number of ways to reach a client centred, community-focused service system—a system that also actively engages employers.”

The report can be found on Toronto Employment and Social Services’ redesigned web page.

The web page was developed in consultation with service users and community agencies, and provides Torontonians with quick and easy access to information about the many programs and services offered. By visiting the site, Toronto residents will learn about upcoming career fairs and workshops. The web page provides links and information about online employment resources. Employers can benefit from visiting the website to find out how they can get help with their hiring needs.

The web page also offers Canada’s first fully integrated online application for social assistance. WAYS (Web Access to Your Services) allows people to quickly estimate if they may qualify for social assistance and then apply online. “We’re very excited about the direction that we’re taking,” says MacVicar. “We’re making sure that the employment, financial and social supports we provide are helping to build a stronger Toronto.”

toronto.ca/socialservices

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