by Kiera Merriam
The YMCA of Owen Sound and Grey Bruce new Port Elgin location is said to be opening soon, expanding their Access to Employment and Settlement services as well as Community Initiatives programs.
"While these services are already offered by appointment across Grey and Bruce counties, having a permanent location in Bruce County will make it even easier for community members to access the support they need," read a recent media release from YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce.
The new Port Elgin location will offer an open-to-everyone resource centre with computers, phone access, and comfortable meeting spaces. Staff from their Employment and Settlement programs will be on-site daily and other YMCA programs will use spaces as needed to connect with clients or the public.
Sarah Cowley, CEO of YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce said that with Community Initiatives as well as Employment and Settlement services currently based in Owen Sound and Hanover, it's exciting to have another home base in Bruce County. "This new Port Elgin location helps us continue growing our impact and reaching even more people to help ignore their potential," said Cowley.
Matt Shute, Director of Community Initiatives, Employment Services, and Settlement Services said that having a dedicated Port Elgin location allows the organization to be more accessible to residents of Bruce County. "We're excited to deepen our presence and build stronger connections in this community."
Employment Programs, Settlement Services, and Community Initiatives
The YMCA offers employment programs, delivered in partnership with Bruce County and the Employment Service System Manager for the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula region, and funded in part by the Canada and Ontario governments. The programs aim to help people prepare for, find, and maintain meaningful work through job search support, resume and interview coaching, training opportunities, and connections to local employers.
Their Settlement Services are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and aim to assist newcomers and immigrants in integrating into Canadian life through language and citizenship support, community connections, and guidance accessing education, sports, and other programs.
Community Initiatives programs aim to address systemic barriers such as poverty, racism, mental health challenges, and rural homelessness and include youth-focussed supports, community justice initiatives, and homelessness response programs in partnership with Bruce County Housing.
While the opening date for the Port Elgin location is not yet known, in a recent media release from the organization, renovations are underway and signage will be installed soon.
