Government of Canada Awards $8.8 Million Dollars to the Neil Squire Society

BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Jan. 27, 2014) -

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The Neil Squire Society has been awarded a national contract for $8.8 million dollars from the Government of Canada's Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities. The contract introduces a new wage subsidy employment program for people with disabilities called Working Together.

The Working Together Program provides employers with a wage subsidy for a minimum of six months and consistent support from the Neil Squire Society. When needed, the necessary worksite adaptations will be provided to help accommodate any needs of the new employee.

There is often an assumption that someone who has a disability is unable to participate in the workforce. By introducing this new program, and providing employers with a wage subsidy, employers will experience the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. This program will help eliminate stereotypes and myths that are placed upon people with disabilities and their ability to be employed.

"Our government's top priorities are creating jobs and economic growth. To support Canada's long-term prosperity, we must ensure that everyone who wants to work has the opportunity. This initiative helps Canadians with disabilities gain work experience, particularly with small and medium-sized businesses that would benefit from their skills and talents," Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development).

"We are excited to have this opportunity provided by the Government of Canada. This funding will help Canadians with disabilities demonstrate their abilities and value, thereby achieving long-term attachment to the workforce," Dr. Gary Birch, Executive Director of the Neil Squire Society.

For more information on the wage subsidy program called Working Together, please visit the Neil Squire Society website, www.neilsquire.ca.

About Neil Squire Society

Neil Squire Society is the only not-for-profit organization in Canada that for the past 29 years has used technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with physical disabilities. The Society has developed innovative programs and services and some of the world's leading edge assistive technology for people with physical disabilities. More than 29,000 people with disabilities in Canada have benefited from the work of the Society. With about fifty staff, Neil Squire Society has offices and provides services to Canadians in Vancouver, Regina, Ottawa, and Fredericton, as well as to many small communities across Canada via distance education.

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