Ontario is investing $12 million to support projects designed to help up to 2,000 people leaving the justice system or with prior criminal records find jobs.

More than one million people in Ontario live with a criminal record, which the province says can decrease the chances of a second interview by 50 per cent, and drastically increases the likelihood of long-term poverty. 

Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development says,  “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government believes in the power of second chances. I urge business leaders to join us as we smash through the stigma of a criminal record.”

The programs will prepare jobseekers for careers in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, food and beverage processing, and other industries. 

They will provide a range of employment and training needs through apprenticeship and technical training, on-the-job learning, and improving job readiness and interview skills. 

The projects also include wrap-around support like mentorship, job placement, and mental health resources to ensure a smooth transition to the job market.